CLOSE
Tags Posts tagged with "A&L Home"

A&L Home

A&L Home Page Container

by -
0 527
It doesn’t take much exercise to improve health outcomes. METRO photo

By David Dunaief, M.D.

As I wrote last week, exercise is not the sole solution for weight loss. However, it can improve our outcomes with diseases and other health issues. It may also play a significant role in altering how our genes express themselves. The list of conditions it can improve includes diabetes, kidney stones, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease and breast, colorectal and endometrial cancers (1).

Even knowing all the positive impacts, motivating yourself to exercise can be difficult. There are some simple ways to motivate yourself during exercise. One study showed that those who repeated positive mantras to themselves during exercise were able to continue for longer periods (2).

Why is this so important? Because we are too sedentary. According to data from the 2017-2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, New York had among the highest levels of physical inactivity in the U.S., at 25.9 percent of the population (3).

Can exercise alter your genes?

While it may not change our genes, exercise may change how our genes express themselves.

One study’s results showed that, when participants exercised for six months, many thousands of genes in fat cells were affected (4). During the study, previously sedentary men took a one-hour spin class twice a week. According to the researchers, this exercise affected genes involved in storing fat and in risk for subsequent diabetes and obesity development. The participants also improved other important health metrics, including cholesterol, blood-pressure, fat percent and, over time, waist circumferences.

Epigenetics is when lifestyle changes ultimately lead to changes in how genes express themselves, turning genes on and off. While this effect has been shown with dietary changes, this is one of the first studies to show that exercise also impacts our genes. It took only six months to see these numerous gene changes with a modest amount of cardiovascular exercise.

Need more inspiration? Another study showed considerable gene changes in muscle cells after one stationary bike workout (5). Yet another introduced six weeks of endurance exercise to healthy, but sedentary, young men and identified an abundance of genetic changes to skeletal muscle, which broadly affects physical and cognitive health (6).

How does exercise affect cardiovascular disease?

One meta-analysis examined 57 studies that involved drugs and exercise. It showed similar mortality benefits with statins and exercise for patients who already have coronary heart disease (7). Both statins and exercise reduced the risk of mortality by similar amounts. The same study also showed that, for those with pre-diabetes, it didn’t matter whether they took metformin or exercised — each had the same effect.

While these results are exciting, don’t change your medication without consulting your physician.

Exercise and kidney stone prevention

Passing a kidney stone can be excruciating. Most treatments involve taking pain medication and fluids and just waiting for the stone to pass. Honestly, the best way to treat kidney stones is to prevent them.

The Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study involved 84,000 postmenopausal women, the population most likely to suffer from kidney stones. It found exercise reduced kidney stone risk by as much as 31 percent (8). Even better, exercise intensity did not alter its beneficial effect. What mattered more was exercise quantity. One hour of jogging or three hours of walking got the top results; however, lesser amounts of exercise also saw substantial reductions.

Exercise can have strong influences on the way you feel; however, it may also influence your genes’ expression and, ultimately, affect the development and prevention of disease. In certain circumstances, it may be as powerful as medications and, in combination, can pack a powerful punch.

References:

(1) JAMA. 2009;301(19):2024. (2) Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2013 Oct 10. (3) cdc.gov. (4) PLoS Genet. 2013 Jun;9(6):e1003572. (5) Cell Metab. 2012 Mar 7;15(3):405-11. (6) Mol Metab. 2021 Nov;53:101290. (7) BMJ. 2013; 347. (8) JASN. 2013;24(3):p 487-497.

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.

by -
0 1085
Robert Pattinson as Mickey 18 and Mickey 17 in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

“Have a nice death. See you tomorrow.” This single line captures the plot, theme, and tone of Mickey 17, writer-director Bong Joon Ho’s follow-up to his award-winning film Parasite.

Edward Ashton’s novel Mickey7 was among NPR’s Best Sci-Fi Books of 2022 and was nominated for Best Science Fiction Book by Goodreads. Now, Bong Joon Ho brings  the novel to the big screen in an epic adaptation titled Mickey 17. The  first-rate cast features Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

Robert Pattinson in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

In the year 2054, sad sack Mickey Barnes (Pattinson) and his friend, the opportunist Timo (Yeun), are pursued by a vicious loan shark. The pair decide to escape Earth, signing up for a four-and-a-half-year voyage to Niflheim, a planet colonizing under the rule of the failed multi-millionaire politician Kenneth Marshall (Ruffalo). The unskilled Timo finagles a position as a shuttle pilot. Conversely, the doubt-plagued Mickey signs on as an “Expendable.” 

Using a cloning technique banned on Earth, Mickey is subjected to experiments and fatal assignments to make the new planet habitable. After he dies, he is literally reprinted, including uploading his memories and personality traits. (The visual printing is one of the film’s most memorable visuals.) Along the way, Mickey develops a relationship with Nasha Barridge (Ackie), a strong-willed, free-spirited security agent.

The complications come when Timo erroneously reports Mickey 17’s death, unaware that the planet’s indigenous lifeforms, Creepers, rescued Mickey 17. Unknowingly, the scientists generate Mickey 18, the brashest and most aggressive Mickey. This mistake generates the forbidden “Multiples” situation. The dual Mickeys introduce an element of farce into this hybrid of dark comedy, science fiction, horror, and satire.

Robert Pattinson departs from his usual leading man persona for Mickey 17. The fatally passive titular clone is the definition of the little man lost in society, almost blithely accepting his fate. He is a man who signed away his life without reading the contract. Mickey 18 is closer to Pattinson’s usual undertakings, the curled, lipped, sexually charged bad boy. Pattinson adeptly creates two visually identical but wholly contrasting characters.

Robert Pattinson as Mickey 18 and Mickey 17 in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

At the center of the film is the buffoonish but appallingly dangerous leader, the egomaniacal and photo-op-obsessed Marshall. Easily manipulated by his underlings and his diabolical wife (Collette), Ruffalo embodies the danger and idiocy of an oligarchical politician with too much power and money and very little brain power. The performance is a hilarious horror, as the fascist clown spews white supremacist hate speech aimed specifically at Niflheim’s resident Creepers. Collette matches Ruffalo, all blazing eyes and sharpened talons, whispering in his ear like a demented Lady MacB.

The entire cast is effective, alternating the comedic with the callous. Ackie exudes a rough charm as the daring and audacious Barridge. Yeun brings an off-handed charm to the morally bankrupt Timo. Even Patsy Ferran, as scientist Dorothy, creates dimension in one of the few caring team members. 

Cinematographer Darius Khondji and production designer Fiona Crombie perfectly complement each other, capturing the overdeveloped Earth, the dark, cramped spaceship and colony quarters, and the bleak tundra of Niflheim. Bong and his frequent collaborator, Jang Hee-chul, designed the Creepers, which are simultaneously adorable and repellent. 

Bong makes clear commentary with Marshall’s pejorative orations on a white master race, the eradication of the native Creepers, and acceptable scientific experimentation on people who are “expendable.” The presence of Marshall’s followers in their red baseball caps is a pointed statement; depending on one’s leanings, this is either the film’s strength or flaw. Mickey 17’s lack of subtlety often pushes the film from social satire into spoof. 

Like with Parasite, Bong proves he is a master of bold cinematic strokes and unusual and exceptional focus. However, unlike its Academy Award-winning predecessor, Mickey 17 has excess in both grotesquerie and running time. If Bong did not surpass his masterpiece, Mickey 17 offers a bleak, often brutally funny, and ultimately engaging film.

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

by -
0 604
Sal Filosa and Jenny Bloom cut the ribbon for the new Teen Center at 205 Main Street on March 14. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

It’s been 10 years in the making but it was all worth it when the doors to the new Port Jefferson Free Library Teen Center swung open after a ribbon cutting event on March 14. A large crowd, including Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, attended the celebration which continued into the evening and at an Open House on March 15. 

According to a press release, the library purchased the 1812 Bayles house at 205 East Main Street 10 years ago with plans of turning the former “Scented Cottage” store into a Teen Center which had been operating out of a rental space across the street from the library.

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich present certificates to staff of the Port Jefferson Free Library. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

A designated “Safe Space,” the new Teen Center features “multiple small rooms offering teens the ability to browse the library’s book, video and game collections, get homework and college application help, play board and video games, access craft supplies or participate in the busy schedule of program offerings,” according to the release. The Center, which is geared for teens in grades 6-12, also features a 3-D printer, homework stations and laptop computers. 

Working with BBS Architecture and Belfor Property Restoration, the library preserved much of the building’s charm, including 5 fireplaces, a beehive oven, the front “Dutch Door,” and the original pine floors. A covered front porch was added after Kate Von der Heyden of the Port Jefferson Historical Society shared historic photos which showed a previously existing Greek Revival-style porch. Amendments include a wheelchair lift and wider doorways.

“The reputation of this institution transcends the boundaries of the village. This is a draw for kids not just in this community but all the surrounding communities. I want to thank you for putting this together and for doing it in such a sensitive way that it maintains the streetscape and the look and feel of the village; it is such a great enhancement,” said Councilmember Kornreich.

“I am so grateful to this library board, to the leadership here and to the community for having the foresight to obtain this historic building, maintain it and renovate so that it can continue to be part of the beating heart of our library system and be a safe, wonderful and fun place for the teens,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“… So proud to walk through these doors for the first time and see what’s inside. I want to use it! There’s a nook and cranny for everything. I’m so glad that my nieces and my nephews and their friends will be able to use it as they come through middle school into the high school … It’s an incredible facility and what a great resource for them,” said Mayor Sheprow, who went on to thank Head of Teen Services Sal Filosa and Library Director Jenny Bloom for bringing the Teen Center to fruition.

“Growing from our one-room rental space to multiple rooms with a covered porch offers a variety of spaces for teens to relax, do homework, play games, or create art. We hope they consider the Teen Center to be their new ‘home away from home,” said Filosa.

“The restoration of the Bayles House and development of the new Teen Center has been the dream of a decade of Board Trustees, Staff, and community members, and the Library is very proud to welcome the community to the grand opening, and for teens for generations to come,” added Bloom.

The Teen Center is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

by -
0 946
A CELEBRATION OF SISTERHOOD AND THE CHANGE What better way to honor the journey of womanhood than with a night of laughter, music, and sisterhood? ‘Menopause the Musical’ continues at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center this weekend.
Thursday March 20

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

The Jazz Loft’s Swing Into Swing Festival 2025 continues today and runs through March 22 with opportunities to hear live Jazz music throughout the community at five local restaurants in the Stony Brook/East Setauket area. L  For the full festival schedule, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch and Learn series at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. as Tara Rider will present “The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick.” The most famous American witch-hunt began in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. Yet, more than three decades before that notorious event, Long Island had its very own witchcraft trial — the trial of Goody Garlick! $55 per person, $45 members includes a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. For tickets, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Spring Bingo

The Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will hold a free bingo event sponsored by The Bristal of Mt. Sinai  from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bingo cards will be provided. Open to Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older. Free. To register, call 631-451-5312.

Women’s Recognition Awards

Town of Brookhaven will host the39th Annual Women’s Recognition Night at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville at 6:30 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, is sponsored by the Town’s Office of Women’s Services, Department of General Services. All are welcome to attend. 631-451-6146

Friday March 21 

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Frances Campani for an enriching Gallery Tour of the gallery’s current exhibit, Figure and Form. Campani will offer a unique perspective on her own works as well as the broader themes of the show. Free. No registration  required. 631-751-7707

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents Marci Geller in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free will donation at the door. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and GPJAC. 631-473-5220

Hispanic Heritage Night

The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, RJO Middle School, 101 Church St., Kings Park presents Hispanic Heritage Night at 7 p.m. Enjoy an acoustic evening with Nick Sassano, a tribute to Latin divas by Linda Miller and more. Free admission. 631-269-3305

Sound Symphony Concert

Comsewogue Public High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a concert by the Sound Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Maestro Dorothy Savitch, the program will include works by Schumann, Tchaikovsky and more. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students at the door. Children under the age of 12 are free. www.soundsymphony.org.

Rhythm India head to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Main Stage performance by Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond at 8 p.m. Vibrant costumes, dynamic music, and stirring rhythms echo the heartbeats of South Asia’s royal palaces and sacred temples, desert villages and modern stages. Created by director and choreographer Joya Kazi, Rhythm India is a joyous commemoration of India’s diverse culture! Tickets range from $48 to $71. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday March 22

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

HealthyU Workshop

Take part in Mather Hospital’s free HealthyU Spring Semester workshop focused on your physical, emotional and financial well-being at The Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Choose from six health seminars and visit a health fair. To register and to view the complete schedule, visit www.matherhospital.org/healthyU.

Repair Café at the Library
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a Repair Café from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. where knowledgeable volunteers will help to repair your broken items and offer advice and inspiration. No registration required. Just drop in! For more information, call 631-928-1212.

Downsizing for Seniors luncheon

Howard Hanna Coach Realtors of Port Jefferson invites seniors looking to downsize to a FREE educational luncheon at the VFW Post 3054,  8 Jones Street, Setauket from noon to 2 p.m. A panel of experts will be on hand to explore the planning and process of Downsizing for Seniors with a focus on housing options for seniors, addressing the challenges of buying a selling a property, financing issues and options, repairs and maintenance, Trusts and Estates and more.  Whether you are looking to make a move this year of sometime down the road, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Lunch and prizes for all attendees as well as all your questions answered. Registration is required by calling 631-994-0082 or go to https://bit.ly/DownsizerWorkshop.

Celebrating Irish Music

Join Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook for a concert celebrating Irish music with Tom Donovan at 2 p.m. No registration required. For more information, call 631-588-5024.

Grand Opening Celebration

Join Optical Outfitters, 158 East Main Street, Suite 2, Port Jefferson for a grand re-opening celebration from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to view the new spring collection. For more information, call 631-928-6401.

Sunday March 23

Model Train Show

The St James Model Railroad Club will host an Open House at the Mills Pond House, 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This 38’ X 48” Lionel train layout, the result of 42 years of continuing improvements, represents Railroading from the Age of Steam to Present Day with many freight and passenger trains running simultaneously in a scenic, imaginative setting. Children of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of this truly impressive event. Suggested donations are $2 for adults, 50 cents for children. 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732.

NHS lecture

Did you know that a visit to Gardiners Island led to famed pirate Captain Kidd dying on the gallows in London? Or that the Atlantic Ocean off the South Shore became known as Rum Row during Prohibition? Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for an illuminating talk titled “Maritime Smuggling on Long Island: From Pirates to Rumrunners” with historian, author and former Newsday reporter Bill Bleyer at 1 p.m. and discover all about Long Island’s fascinating maritime past, from pirates to bootleggers. Tickets are $15, $12 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Joe Piket in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Joe Piket, a two-time finalist in the Long Island Music Festival and four-time winner in the Best of Long Island Entertainer of the Year poll, at 3 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce presents the 55th annual Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m. Grand Marshal Dan Moloney will lead the parade from Amvets Post 48, 660 Hawkins Ave. at School Street, south down Hawkins Ave. ending at Thorne Street. 631-304-6303, www.ronkonkomaparade.org 

Monday March 24

Community Blood Drive

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you or anyone you know would like to make an appointment, all 1-800-933-2566.

SHS Spring Lecture

Join the Smithtown Historical Society at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown for a spring lecture titled Long Island Lighthouses from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Robert G. Müller of the Long Island Chapter, of the US Lighthouse Society, will offer an in-depth look at over 20 local light stations spanning more than 200 years. Through a combination of historic and contemporary images, it explores the intricate details of lighthouse construction and the compelling stories of lightkeepers’ lives. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. No reservations required. 631-265-6768.

Tuesday March 25

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a presentation by Francine Holland on the “Pillars of Brain Health” at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

An Evening of Comedy

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a Comedy Night at 8 p.m.  Come have some laughs, enjoy some cocktails, and listen to some very funny comedians! $45 per person. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Wednesday March 26

No events listed for this day.

Thursday March 27

Community Blood Drive

Farmingville Fire Department, 780 Horseblock Road, Farmingville will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participating donors will receive a coupon for a pint of your choice of Italian ice at the Farmingville location. All donors will also receive a hero, salad and refreshments. For questions, call 516-310-2382.

Library Blood Drive

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road Port Jefferson Station will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are suggested but walk-ins are welcome. To determine eligibility or make an appointment please call New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566 or visit www.cplib.org/BloodDrive. 631-928-1212

Music Bingo Fundraiser

Smithtown Children’s Foundation will hold a Music Bingo fundraiser at the Elks Lodge, 120 Edgewood Ave., Smithtown at 6 p.m. Join them for dinner and dancing to benefit the Smithtown Central School Districts’ Business School scholarships. Tickets are $50 per person. To register, visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook presents an evening of Native American Drumming Meditations from 7 p.m. to 8 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.  Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Film

‘Here’

Join Comsewogue Public LIbrary, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Here starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright on March 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve your spot, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘A Man with Sole’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 20 at 7 p.m. which chronicles the rise of renowned fashion entrepreneur, Kenneth Cole, from his scrappy start selling shoes through to his current day success. The screening will be followed by a conversation with Director Dori Berinstein. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics’

As part of National Science on Screen® Day, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen the 1997 sci-fi thriller Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics on March 25 at 7:30 p.m. Following the film, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Geneticist W. Richard McCombie will present a lecture and discussion on the fascinating science of genetics. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Facing the Wind’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Facing the Wind at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 27 at 7 p.m. The film examines the connection forged between two women as they care for their spouses stricken with Lewy Body dementia. Director Deirdre Fishel will join the post-film discussion in person with Cindy Morris of the Benson Agency. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. The show captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘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.

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.

 

by -
0 449
METRO photo
Exercise is an inadequate weight-loss tool

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

We hear continuously about the importance of exercise. Why is it so important, though? Exercise has benefits for preventing and improving a wide range of medical conditions, from cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes to depression, insomnia, fatigue, balance, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis. Will it help you lose weight, though? While gym equipment ads emphasize this, exercise without dietary changes may not help many people lose weight, no matter what the intensity or the duration (1). It may only reduce fat mass and weight modestly for most people. It might, however, be helpful with weight maintenance.

Ultimately, it may be more important to examine what you are eating than to succumb to the rationalization that you can eat without care and work out to compensate for that extra cookie.

Does exercise help with weight loss?

The well-known weight-loss paradigm is that when you burn more calories than you consume, you will promote weight loss. However, study results say otherwise. They show that in premenopausal women there was neither weight nor fat loss from exercise (2). This involved 81 women over a short duration, 12 weeks. All of the women were overweight to obese.

However, more than two-thirds of the women gained a mean of 1 kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of fat mass by the end of the study. There were a few who gained 10 pounds of predominantly fat. A fair amount of variability was seen among the participants, ranging from significant weight loss to substantial weight gain. These women were told to exercise at the American College of Sports Medicine’s optimal level of intensity (3). This is to walk 30 minutes on a treadmill three times a week at 70 percent VO2max — maximum oxygen consumption during exercise, which is characterized as a moderately intense pace.

On the positive side, the women were in better aerobic shape by the study’s end. Also, women who had lost weight at four-weeks were more likely to continue to do so by the end of the study.

Other studies have shown modest weight loss. For instance, in a meta-analysis involving 14 randomized controlled trials, results showed that exercise alone led to a disappointing amount of weight loss (4). In six months, patients lost a mean of 3.5 pounds, and at 12 months, they lost about 3.75 pounds.

A recent meta-analysis of aerobic exercise studies found that, in order to break through to meaningful reductions in waist circumference and body fat, participants had to exercise more than 150 minutes per week, up to 300 minutes weekly, at moderate to vigorous aerobic intensity (5).

However, exercise may help with weight maintenance, according to observational studies. Premenopausal women who exercised at least 30 minutes a day were significantly less likely to regain lost weight (6). In another study, when exercise was added to dietary changes, women were able to maintain 30 percent more weight loss than with diet alone after a year (7).

How does exercise help with disease?

Let’s look at chronic kidney disease (CKD), which affects about 14 percent of U.S. adults, as one example of exercise’s impact on disease (8).

Trial results showed that walking regularly could reduce the risk of kidney replacement therapy and death in patients who have moderate to severe CKD (9). When walkers were compared to non-walkers, walkers experienced a 21 percent reduction in the risk of kidney replacement therapy and a 33 percent reduction in the risk of death.

The more frequently patients walked during the week, the better the probability of preventing complications. Those who walked between one and two times per week had 17 and 19 percent reductions in death and kidney replacement therapy, respectively, while those who walked at least seven times a week saw a 44 percent reduction in death and a 59 percent reduction in kidney replacement. This is significant. The authors concluded that the effectiveness of walking on CKD was independent of kidney function, age or other diseases.

There are many benefits to exercise; however, food choices will have a greater impact on weight and body composition. The good news: exercise can help maintain weight loss and is extremely beneficial for preventing progression of chronic diseases, such as CKD.

References:

(1) Diabetes Spectr. 2017 Aug;30(3):157–160. (2) J Strength Cond Res. 2015 Feb;29(2):297-304. (3) ACSM.org. (4) Am J Med. 2011;124(8):747. (5) JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(12):e2452185. (6) Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010;18(1):167. (7) Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 1997;21(10):941. (8) cdc.gov. (9) Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 Jul;9(7):1183-1189.

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.

by -
0 483
Children will learn about the environment, animals and plants through crafts and stories during the Pee Wee Gardening classes offered at the Holtsville Ecology Site & Animal Preserve.

In anticipation of Spring, Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro has announced upcoming dates for both pee-wee and adult gardening classes at the Holtsville Ecology Site & Animal Preserve, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville beginning in April.

“In addition to being a great value, these classes are a fun and educational way to welcome Spring,” said Losquadro. “Children will learn about the environment, animals and plants through crafts and stories, while adult participants will learn how to start plants through propagation and create backyard flower arrangements.”

The adult horticulture classes will be held from 10 a.m. until noon on Thursday, April 3, 10, 24, and May 1 and 8. 

Participants in the pee-wee gardening classes, which are for children ages three to five, can choose from two five-week sessions: Tuesday, April 1, 8, 22, 29, and May 6, or Wednesday, April 2, 9, 23, 30, and May 7. Both classes are offered from either 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and cost $50 for a five-week session. 

Registration is available through March 24 at www.BrookhavenNY.gov/RecOnline. For more information, call 631-451-5330.

by -
0 1272
1 of 8
The cast of the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Happy Child' by Melinda Gros. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Monster Love' by D.L. Siegel. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Too Much Fondant' by Melanie Acampora. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Final Dress' by Matthew Green. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Where Illusions End' by Mark Mulkerin. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Sinergy' by James McLindon. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Cliff' by Teri Foltz. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

By Julianne Mosher

Seven small plays packed into a two-hour festival will leave you with plenty of emotions; you’ll laugh, cry, gasp and smile. 

Now in its 26th year, the Festival of One-Act Plays at Port Jefferson’s Theatre Three has been the place where world premieres have been shown. Throughout it’s almost three decades, they have received 14,000 submissions worldwide. This year, 1,000 plays were sent in and seven made the cut. 

Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the festival starts out with the somber “A Happy Child” featuring the incredible Jae Hughes and Linda May. Written by Melinda Gros, Hughes plays Rory, the child of the woman (May), who is a drifter. They won’t go home to a stable shelter where their child lives and grows, and it hurts both them and their mom. The mom expresses how much she misses them when they’re away and the end of the show will leave your heart hurting for the family that seems to be holding on by a thread. 

“Monster Love,” written by D.L. Siegel, is next featuring Steve Ayle as Victor and Julia Albino as Bonnie. Bonnie is getting married, and she must plan the festivities with her scientist father, Victor Frankenstein. He really wants his late wife, Bonnie’s mother, there, so he shows off his new creation (Samantha Fierro) … And it happens to have his wife’s head. You’ll laugh at this one, it’s silly, but a clever take on modernizing the classic tale and making it more… relatable? While Fierro doesn’t have much speaking parts, she plays a great monster with her hilarious body language and facial expressions. Albino is a successful working woman and Ayle’s mad scientist is absolutely hysterical. 

Port Jefferson local Melanie Acampora’s third show in the festival premiered with “Too Much Fondant” which starts off with funny banter between a husband (Evan Teich) and wife (Brittany Lacey). Teich, a workaholic, is unimpressed by a piece of cake Lacey brought home after the neighbor’s birthday party. Too much fondant can ruin a cake. But in a quick turn of events, we see their relationship completely unravel. What went wrong? Teich and Lacey’s chemistry on stage is beautiful and tragic, especially when we watch the relationship fall apart. 

The tension in the room could be cut with a knife. 

Before intermission, Larry (Jason Furnari), Jess (Hughes), Luke (Will Brennan), Amy (Fierro), Bobbi (Phyllis March) and Desi (Steven Uihlein) are putting on a community theater production of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” in “Final Dress, or Places for the End of the World” by Matthew Green. The five are rehearsing the famous end scene, and Bobbi is tired and wants to leave the theater … which is actually a shelter from the end of the world outside. When Bobbi leaves, Jess, who has become stage manager and director, needs to figure out how to produce “Romeo and Juliet” with just four actors. This one feels all too real in a post-pandemic world. 

Mark Mulkerin’s “Where Illusions End” is a sad one, but also relatable to people who have felt the effects of cancer firsthand. Cam (Furnari) and his brother Alex (Teich) are navigating how to better care for their sick mother. Alex is a magician by trade, and he is completely against their mom trying a new type of treatment that he is convinced is a scam. An illusionist, himself, he says he can do a better job at pretending to cure her than an expensive doctor can. 

On a lighter note, we’re then brought to a business pitch in James McLindon’s “Sinergy.” Aubrey (Lacey) plays a businesswoman whose specialty is combining medieval prayer with modern cleansing … of your sins. She’s pitching this wellness practice to Taylor (Ayle), and to prove it works, Tistram (Uihlein), a poor man dressed in pauper’s clothing, who reluctantly will take on the sins of the consumer, clearing their conscious and making them feel great. This one is funny. It’ll be a sin to not to laugh at it. 

The festival ends with “Cliff” by Teri Foltz. Cliff (Douglas Quattrock) is sitting in a waiting room anticipating a cancer diagnosis. His hurricane of a wife, Carrie (May), is there with him along with four other patients; (Albino, Brennan, Fierro and March). Cliff, a quiet, delicate man tells us the story of his life. He’s always been known as shy, kind of a doormat, and relatively awkward in social settings, but he’s kind, and deep down he wants more. This diagnosis, whether it’s negative or positive, could be the start of a new chapter for Cliff. 

Quattrock’s performance received a standing ovation and should continue on throughout the remainder of the shows. 

Overall, the festival was an amazing production of short and sweet plays that will appeal to everyone. There’s a reason The Festival of One-Act Plays has been selling out shows for 26 years.

————————————-

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at the Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage through April 5. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

by -
0 607
Irish Apple Cake

By Heidi Sutton

Whether your shamrock spirit leads you out for a local St. Patrick’s Day parade or you’re more of a stay-at-home leprechaun, there is one tradition all can agree on: delicious Irish food. 

Serve with Sweet Irish Soda Bread and share a sweet way to complete the meal in style with Irish Apple Cake, a classic dessert to top off a filling celebration. This version is easy enough to prepare with a handful of everyday ingredients for the cake, a crumbly topping and homemade custard for the finishing touch, courtesy of Family Features.

Sweet Irish Soda Bread

Sweet Irish Soda Bread

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

4 tablespoons butter melted

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

4 cups self-rising flour

1 cup currants or raisins

2 tablespoons sanding sugar optional

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 375 F. Mix melted butter and sugar then add buttermilk. Mix in flour and currants (or raisins). Flour hands and counter. Add sanding sugar to dough, if desired, and knead into ball. Grease small Dutch oven or pie plate and bake 40 minutes. 

Irish Apple Cake

Irish Apple Cake

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Cake:

3 cups self-rising flour

1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon cloves

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1 stick butter cubed

3/4 cup sugar

4 apples of choice peeled and cubed

2 eggs

1 cup half-and-half

Topping:

1/2 stick butter

3/4 cup flour

1 cup brown sugar

Custard:

6 large egg yolks

6 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 cups half-and-half

2 teaspoons vanilla 

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease and flour 9-inch round springform pan. In large bowl, sift flour with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger. Using fork, cut butter until mixture resembles crumbs. Add sugar and apples; mix well. Stir in eggs and half-and-half until mixture reaches thick, dough-like batter. Pour batter into prepared pan.

To make topping: In bowl, mix butter, flour and sugar to create crumbled mixture. Sprinkle on top of batter in pan. Bake 1 hour. Check with toothpick to make sure middle is completely done. If not, bake 5-10 minutes. Let cool on rack.

To make custard: Whisk egg yolks and sugar. In saucepan, bring half-and-half to boil. Add one spoonful half-and-half at a time to egg mixture, whisking while adding. Once whisked together, return to saucepan and stir over medium heat until thickened, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Serve custard over cake.

by -
0 765
TAPPING INTO TOWN The Syncopated Ladies bring their fierce footwork to the Staller Center at Stony Brook University on March 14
Thursday March 13

Nina Et Cetera in Concert

Northport Arts Coalition presents Nina Et Cetera in concert at the Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport at 7 p.m. The band celebrates traditional American music while performing songs by Johnny Cash, The Carter Family, Hank Williams, Lead Belly, and Patsy Cline as well as original tunes. Open to all. To register, call 631-261-6930.

RP Historical Society Lecture

The Rocky Point Historical Society will present a talk by Christopher Verga at the VFW, 109 King Road, Rocky Point from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Verga is the author of seven books on Long Island history topics, including “Civil Rights on Long Island.” All are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. 

The Parlor of Mystery

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents an evening of magic and wonder with The Parlor of Mystery at 8 p.m. This captivating show promises an unparalleled experience that combines mind-bending illusions, jaw-dropping magic, and side-splitting comedy. Featuring Jim Vines, TJ Tana and host Mike Maione. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Friday March 14

Brain Injury Awareness Presentation

In conjunction with Brain Injury Awareness Day, New Village Recreation Center, 20 Wireless Road, Centereach will  host a presentation by The Social Brain from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come hear from Traumatic Brain Injury survivors, caregivers and professions in the field along with special presentations. Light refreshments will be served. Free. For more information, call 631-793-4311.

Port Jefferson Free Library’s Teen Center grand opening

Port Jefferson Free Library’s staff and Board of Trustees invites the community to visit the new Teen Center located at 205 East Main Street in Port Jefferson (the former Scented Cottage store) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tour the renovated 1812 Bayles House, meet the staff and learn about the programs, services and collections housed in their new space. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. Activities and refreshments will be ongoing throughout the night, and through the open house on Saturday, March 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents Paddy Cullivan in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. A unique one-man show direct from Ireland, Paddy presents political and aesthetic narratives from past and present in a new and exciting way, incorporating songs, imagery and a unique, passionate insight. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.gpac.org or at the door if available. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. 631-473-5220

Sip & Paint: Starry Night

Experience a night of creativity and relaxation at the Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station with Sip & Paint: Starry Night Edition a 7 p.m. Under the guidance of Director Caitlyn Shea, you’ll paint your own version of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” on a margarita glass. $35 per person,, $30 members. To RSVP, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Symphony Orchestra Concert

The Northport Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Eric Mahl, will present the second concert of its 2024-2025 season at Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport at 8 p.m.. The concert will feature Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 3, Jubilee, from the Symphonic Sketches by George Chadwick, the Montgomery Variations by Margaret Bonds, and the Egmont Overture by Ludwig van Beethoven. Tickets are $15 at the door. www.northportsymphony.org.

‘One Lucky Night’ Fundraiser

Melville Lions Club invites the community to their 4th annual “One Lucky Night” fundraiser at the American Legion, 1 Mill Dam Road, Huntington from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is $75 per person and includes a buffet dinner, wine, beer, soda, $200 in player chips and raffle prizes. Proceeds will benefit local charities and families in need. For advanced tickets, call 631-885-2536.

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring Mike Meehan and the Lucky Ones! 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.

Syncopated Ladies head to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Main Stage performance by the Syncopated Ladies at 8 p.m. featuring cutting-edge choreography and inspiring stories — a celebration of sisterhood through the power of tap! Tickets range from $47 to $66. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday March 15

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a Winter Water Walk from 9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Observe winter waterfowl, explore the beach, and also learn about ponds on this 4 mile walk to and from the water. Bring binoculars! Adults only. $4 per person. Pre-registration required by calling 631-423-1770.

Polar Plunge and Breakfast

Time to take the plunge! Hope House Ministries presents the 2nd annual Polar Bear Plunge and Breakfast fundraiser at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson at 11 a.m. followed by a hot breakfast, photo booth and fellowship at 11:30 a.m. Check-in is at 10 a.m.  Registration fee is $50. Sign up at www.hhm.org.

Irish Luck on the Farm

Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown presents its annual Irish Luck on the Farm from noon to 4 p.m. Celebrate Irish heritage with an afternoon on the farm! Activities include Irish step-dancing, live music, a bonfire, food and craft vendors, children’s activities and more! Rain date is March 16. Tickets are $7 per person (children under the age of 3 are free) at www.eventbrite.com or at the door. 631-265-6768

St. James St. Patrick’s Day Parade

St. James Chamber of Commerce presents the 40th annual St. James St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 1 p.m. The parade will step off along Lake Avenue from Woodlawn Avenue to the viewing stand in front of the gazebo ending just before St James Elementary School, rain or shine. Featuring scouts, dance troupes, pipe bands, school bands, floats, fire trucks and more. The grand marshal will be Robert J. Murphy. Rain date is March 22. 631-584-8510

Wilderness Survival Workshop

The Vanderbilt Museum 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Wilderness Survival Series with Ranger Eric Powers and Mike Evans today at 2 p.m. and runs  once a month through July 12. Each workshop focuses on specific skills such as making cordage, shelter building, purifying water, and toolmaking. Perfect for those starting their survival skills journey or looking to deepen existing skills. $50 per person, $45 members. To reserve your spot, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Honey Harvest Get-Together

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead will host an afternoon of honeybee education and honey harvesting from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Master Beekeeper Chris Kelly of Promise Land Apiaries will explain the wondrous work of honeybees and will harvest and bottle honey taken directly from Hallockville’s hives. Participants will be invited to assist with the process and get to take home a four-ounce jar of honey. Light refreshments will be served. $50 per person, $40 members. To register, visit www.hallockville.org.

Basket Auction Fundraiser

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 315 Lake Shore Road, Lake Ronkonkoma hosts a Basket Auction fundraiser for its Playtime Preschool Program at 5 p.m. Drawing starts at 7 p.m. $10 admission includes one sheet of tickets. Food and snacks available. For more information, call 631-588-1888.

Line Dancing Fundraiser

Join the Northport Chorale for their annual fundraiser, “A Night at the Line Dancing!” at Christ Lutheran Church, 189 Burr Road, East Northport from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy a hot and cold buffet, dessert table, raffles,“Baskets-By-Rachel’,” 50/50, line dancing and a pre-St. Patty’s Day old fashioned Irish sing-a-long to finish the evening. Tickets are $35 per person. To order, please call 631-754-3144.

Night at the Races

Moose Lodge #1379, 37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mt. Sinai will hold a Night At the Races benefit from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Featuring real races and bets, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, big money wheel, cash bar and a corned beef and cabbage dinner. $25 per person. Proceeds benefit Mather Hospital’s Fortunato Breast Health Center. For tickets, call Pat at 631-639-0482.

Irish Comedy Night

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown in partnership with Governor’s Comedy Clubs presents an Irish Comedy Night at 8 p.m. Featuring Sean Donnelly, Terry McNeely, Debbie D’Amore and Nick Maloney. Tickets are $40 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Sunday March 16

The Women of Music

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a free concert, The Women of Music, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Mary Sollitto and Jim Kanellos will delight you with show stopping hits by musical artists you know and love including  songs by Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Carly Simon, Carole King, and more. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

MP-RP St. Pat’s Parade

The Friends of St. Patrick will host the  73rd annual  Miller Place-Rocky Point St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 1 p.m. sharp. The 2.8-mile parade starts at Harrison Avenue and Route 25A in Miller Place and then finishes at Broadway in Rocky Point. This year’s Co-Grand Marshals will be John and Raymond O’Sullivan. www.thefriendsofstpatrick.com

Northport Walking Tour

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a Historic Main Street Walking Tour at 1:30 p.m. Travel back in time with historian Dan Sheehan 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. Tickets are $15, $12 members at www.northporthistorical.org.

Center Moriches St. Pat’s Parade

Center Moriches’ 21st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place in Center Moriches at 2 p.m. The parade begins on Lake Avenue and ends at Railroad Avenue. This year’s Grand Marshal is Mark Danowski. www.moricheschamber.org. 

Farmingdale St. Pat’s Parade

Farmingdale presents its 11th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m. The parade steps off at Northside Elementary School and proceeds down Main Street to the Village Green. This year’s Grand Marshal is Cheryl Parisi. 516-286-7800 

LITMA Contradance

Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown will host a LITMA Contradance at 2 p.m. Basic instruction will be held at 1:45 p.m. Bob Isaacs will call and the band for the dance will be The LITMA Contra Band featuring a mix of Scottish, Irish, English and American tunes. $15 general admission, $10 members, $7.50 students, children under 16 free with paid adult, 631-369-7854

Chuck Silverstein in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Chuck Silverstein and His Fertile Imagination from 3 to 4 p.m. self-described as Quasi Pseudo Psycho Ragtime Americana Folk Rap with just a little bit of Dime-store Philosophy in every song. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Monday March 17

No events listed for this day.

Tuesday March 18

Community Blood Drive

Local Church, 1070 Portion Road, Farmingville will host a community blood drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. by the New York Blood Center. To make an appointment at donate.nybc.org or just drop in. For more information, call 631-256-7532.

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

The Jazz Loft’s Swing Into Swing Festival 2025 kicks off today and runs through March 22 with opportunities to hear live Jazz music throughout the community at five local restaurants in the Stony Brook/East Setauket area. Local restaurants featuring live jazz include: Bliss, located at 766 Route 25A in East Setauket; Elaine’s, located at 316 Main Street in East Setauket; The Country House, located at 1175 North Country Road in Stony Brook; Madiran, located at 209 Route 25A in East Setauket; and Schnitzels, located at 77 Main Street in Stony Brook. The five-day music festival will also feature concert performances at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook including a Community Jazz Night with Carl Safina, Rod Borrie and John Ronconi on March 18; Bakithi Kumalo Ensemble on March 20;  the Mitch Marcus Quintet on March 21 and Frank Vignola and his Birdland Quintet on March 22.  For the full festival schedule, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

NSJC Social Club event

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

Travel Presentation Club meeting

Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will host a meeting of the Travel Presentation Club at 7 p.m. Dr. Frank Shih will make a presentation entitled “ The Singapore Success Story: From Underdevelopment to Economic Prosperity.” All are welcome. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Wednesday March 19

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 18 listing.

Hard Luck Cafe Concert

The Hard Luck Café concert series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre (423 Park Avenue, Huntington) continues tonight in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. A multimedia Tribute to Those We’ve Lost, the concert will feature two-dozen Long Island-based artists who will perform songs by/popularized by notable songwriters and recording artists who left our world over the past year. Tickets are $20 ($15 for CAC/FMSH members) and may be purchased at cinemaartscentre.org or at the box office.

Thursday March 20

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 18 listing.

Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch and Learn series at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. as Tara Rider will present “The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick.” The most famous American witch-hunt began in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. Yet, more than three decades before that notorious event, Long Island had its very own witchcraft trial — the trial of Goody Garlick! $55 per person, $45 members includes a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. For tickets, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Spring Bingo

The Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will hold a free bingo event sponsored by The Bristal of Mt. Sinai from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bingo cards will be provided. Open to Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older. Free. To register, call 631-451-5312.

Film

‘Every Little Thing’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Every Little Thing at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 13 at 7 p.m. Filmmaker Sally Aiken profiles bird rehabilitator Terry Masear, who has devoted her life to saving and protecting hummingbirds in the Los Angeles area. The screening will be followed by a conversation with Terry Masear, Dr. Carl Safina, Patricia Paladines, and Dr. Maria Bowling. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Here’

Join Comsewogue Public LIbrary, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Here starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright on March 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve your spot, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘A Man with Sole’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 20 at 7 p.m. which chronicles the rise of renowned fashion entrepreneur, Kenneth Cole, from his scrappy start selling shoes through to his current day success. The screening will be followed by a conversation with Director Dori Berinstein. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B12.

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. The show captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘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.

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 to the end of April. 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.

 

by -
0 740
Butterfly and bee feeding on a flower

As spring 2025 approaches, gardeners embrace a fresh wave of trends celebrating sustainability, native plants, and striking color palettes. This year, gardening enthusiasts are moving away from manicured perfection, opting for nature-driven designs that support pollinators, reduce maintenance, and enhance biodiversity.

Native Gardening & Pollinator-Friendly Plants
Home gardeners and landscapers increasingly prioritize native plants to create ecosystems that sustain local wildlife. Flowers such as Milkweed, Coneflowers, and Bee Balm dominate garden spaces, drawing in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while requiring less water and care. The growing awareness of declining pollinator populations has inspired a movement toward planting species that nourish and shelter these essential creatures.

Bold Colors & Vibrant Blooms
While past years favored soft pastels, 2025 is all about deep reds, electric blues, and golden yellows. Gardeners gravitate toward plants like Red Hot Poker, Cardinal Flower, and Goldenrod to add dramatic contrast and visual interest. Whether in perennial beds or container gardens, this year’s gardens are set to be a celebration of bold expression.

Edible Landscapes & Food Security
The farm-to-table trend has moved beyond the kitchen and into backyard gardens. More homeowners are integrating fruit-bearing trees, berry bushes, and edible perennialsinto traditional landscapes, allowing beauty and function. Blueberry shrubs, fig-trees, and edible flowers like Nasturtiums are making their way into front yards, blurring the line between ornamental and edible gardening.

Moss & Ground Cover for Eco-Friendly Lawns
Traditional lawns are replaced with low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternatives like moss and native ground covers. Homeowners are seeking Creeping Thyme, Pennsylvania Sedge, and Irish Moss to create lush, green carpets that require little water, eliminate the need for mowing, and provide habitat for beneficial insects.

Vertical Gardening & Small Space Solutions
With urban living on the rise, small-space gardening innovations are booming. Living walls, trellis gardens, and hanging planters redefine how people maximize limited areas. Vertical gardening allows city dwellers and suburban homeowners to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers in compact, stylish ways.

As we move into 2025, gardening trends reflect a deeper connection to nature, sustainability, and personal expression,” says Tammy Sons at TN Nursery.“Whether through pollinator-friendly plants, vibrant color choices, or eco-conscious landscaping, this spring is about cultivating gardens that are as purposeful as beautiful.”

TN Nursery has been a leading gardener and nursery industry leader for 66 years, providing high-quality plants, expert advice, and eco-conscious solutions for gardeners of all levels.

Prev1...456...76Next Page 5 of 76
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©