Aldi in Medford will hold a ribbon cutting on June 12 at 9 a.m. Stock photo
By Heidi Sutton
It’s official! The new Aldi supermarket coming to Medford has set an opening date. The store will open its doors on Wednesday, June 11 for a “sneak peak” and a grand opening will be held on Thursday, June 12 with a ribbon cutting scheduled at 9 a.m. The first 100 customers at the grand opening will receive a golden ticket that could be worth up to $100. In addition, free tote bags will be distributed while supplies last and shoppers can also enter a contest for a chance to win a $500 gift card from June 12 to 15. Residents in the area received a flyer in the mail this week with a $5 coupon off a minimum $30 purchase.
Located at 2799 Route 112 in the Medford Crossings shopping center, the German-owned discount supermarket will join TJ Maxx, and Motor Vehicles in a 22,000-square-foot space previously occupied by Michael’s Crafts, which relocated to another part of the shopping center. The store will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Known for its budget-friendly prices, Aldi offers weekly specials, fresh produce deliveries daily, online shopping, curbside pickup, home delivery and avoids “hidden costs” by selling 90% exclusive, private-label items instead of big brands. Customers are encouraged to bring their own tote bags, must bag their own groceries and pay a quarter to rent a shopping cart.
The Medford location is Aldi’s 13th store in Suffolk County. Other locations include Bohemia, Lake Grove, Selden, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, Patchogue, East Northport, Rocky Point, Central Islip, Bay Shore, Riverhead, and Shirley. An Aldi in the former King Kullen at 153 Ronkonkoma Avenue in Lake Ronkonkoma will open in the near future.
“At our new Medford ALDI store, shoppers will find that every decision we make, from our product selection to store layout, is to provide our customers with the best products at the lowest possible prices of any national grocer,” said Chris Daniels, regional vice president for ALDI, in a statement. “Our customers can save up to 36 percent on an average household’s shopping list. As shoppers look for better ways to stretch their dollar, ALDI is providing Medford with easier access to quality groceries at affordable prices.”
The Medford location is part of Aldi’s goal to open more than 225 new store locations in 2025 as part of the next phase of its five-year national growth strategy. This is the most stores ALDI will open in one year in its nearly 50-year U.S. history as more shoppers than ever look to save up to 36% on an average shopping trip, according to a release.
“ALDI continues to see more shoppers come through our doors as they experience our quicker, easier and more affordable shopping experience firsthand,” said Hart. “With our expansion across the country, ALDI is earning the trust of more shoppers in more communities than ever before, bringing us closer to becoming America’s first stop for groceries,” said Jason Hart, CEO, ALDI.
For more information, call 855-955-2534 or visit stores.aldi.us
Sand and Soil farm stand at Port Jefferson farmers market. Photo by Lynn Hallarman
By Heidi Sutton
The warm weather months are a peak time for outdoor activities, including visiting your local farmers market. A vibrant selection of fresh produce and artisanal goods, a farmer’s market is a delightful way to support local farmers and businesses and to connect with your community. Chances are you can find one nearby on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays through the fall.
Centereach
The farmstand at Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, 178 Oxhead Road, Centereach will be open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through mid-October. 631-774-1556, www.hobbsfarm.info
Farmingville
— A farmers market will be held every Thursday through Oct. 30 from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the south parking lot of Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville. Fresh produce, spirits, flowers, baked goods, homemade bath and body products. 631-451-8696
— A Farmers, Artisans, and Friends Marketplace will be held at Triangle Park, corner of Horseblock Rd. and Woodycrest Dr., Farmingville on June 28 and Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Local produce, handmade items, antiques, flea market treasures. 631-260-7411
Hauppauge
New! The Suffolk County Farmers Market at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge will be open to the public every Thursday at the facility’s north parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 2. Baked goods, mushrooms, skin care, organic produce, tea and bath and body products. 631-853-2047
Huntington
A farmers market will be held in the Elm Street parking lot at 228 Main St., Huntington on Sundays through Nov. 23 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, pickles, honey, special events, guest vendors. 631-402-3867
Lake Grove
Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove hosts a farmers market in the southwestern quadrant of the parking lot (adjacent to Bahama Breeze) on Saturdays (pickles, honey) and full market with vendors on Sundays. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days year-round. 516-444-1280
Northport
Cow Harbor Park parking lot, at the corner of Main Street and Woodbine Ave. in Northport, hosts a farmers market every Saturday through Nov. 22 (except Sept. 20) from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Honey, ravioli, cheese, coffee, pickles, empanadas, mushrooms, baked goods, jams, fruits and vegetables, plants.631-662-7244
Port Jefferson
The Port Jefferson Farmers Market will be held at Harborfront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson every Sunday through Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local produce honey, bread and baked goods, seafood, international specialties, plants, flower bouquets and more. 631-802-2160
St. James
— St. James Lutheran Church, 230 2nd Ave., St. James hosts a farmers market in its parking lot every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 27. Fresh locally grown produce, flowers, honey, coffee, shellfish, artisan baked goods, breads jams, hot food, pickles, craft beer, international foods, live music, kids corner. 631-403-7711
— Birdsfoot Farmstand at Avalon Nature Preserve, 17 Shep Jones Lane, St. James is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays for the season. 631-689-0619
Setauket
The Three VillageFarmers & Artisans Market is held Fridays on the grounds of the Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket throughSeptember (except Sept. 19) from 3 to 7 p.m. and October 1 to 24 from 3 to 6 p.m. Locally grown farm fresh produce, artisanal bread & cheese, freshly brewed coffee & tea, local honey, nuts & spices, jams & jellies, baked treats, and more. 631-751-3730
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' at Theatre Three. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Reviewed by Heidi Sutton
Through June 21, the fairest of them all and her seven friends will take up residence at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson for a musical retelling of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Kevin F. Story with additional material by Jeffrey Hoffman and Douglas J. Quattrock, the show features all of the elements of the original Brothers Grimm fairy tale with the evil queen, the magic mirror, the seven dwarfs, the handsome prince, the poisoned apple and, of course, the enchanting Snow White.
Directed by Colleen Britt with choreography by Kiernan Urso, the show opens with the queen asking the Mirror for the umpteenth time who the fairest in the land is. When the Mirror replies Snow White, the queen summons Witch Yvonne to give her a makeover. When that goes horribly wrong, the jealous queen flies into a fit of rage and orders the Huntsman to take Snow White into the forest and dispose of her.
Of course the Huntsman doesn’t have the heart to do that so he lets her escape. Snow White comes upon the cottage of the seven dwarfs and the adventure begins.
Julia Rose Albino is perfectly cast as the sweet Snow White who infuriates thequeen, played to the hilt by Cassidy Rose O’Brien, because she “is sooooo nice!” Indeed, every time Snow White enters the room you hear birds sing — a nice touch.
Although the names are different, the dwarfs — played by Louisa Bikowski, Ginger Dalton, Steven Uihlein, Sophia DelCarmen, Kaitlyn Jehle, Yashaun Harris, and Ryan Van Nostrand — have the same personalities of the original Doc, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy and Dopey. Special mention must be made of Bikowski as Iggy (aka Dopey) who can’t remember what happened three seconds ago, and Van Nostrand as Froggy (aka Doc) who has the patience of a saint.
Kyle Breitenbach is the handsome Prince who is on a quest to save a damsel in distress when he meets Snow White. The chemistry between Breitenbach and Albino is adorable to watch as they hide their identity from each other when they first meet, instead posing as Principal Marco Polo and Blanche Snowkowski.
The song and dance numbers, accompanied on keyboards by Douglas Quattrock and Jeffrey Hoffman, tie everything together. Albino’s rendition of “I Love It All” and O’Brien’s follow-up “I Hate It All” in the beginning of the show set up the storyline perfectly and Uihlein’s rendition of “I’ve Got Those ‘I’m-Just-a-Mirror-on-the-Wall’ Blues” is wonderfully executed.
Breitenbach and VanNostrand’s duet, “Someone,” shows off some dance skills and Breitenbach and Albino’s duet “I Think I’m in Like With You” is absolutely charming. “Hand in Hand” by the entire company is the perfect finale.
Costumes by Jason Allyn are colorful and fun and wait until you see the incredible special effects! This fairy tale production is not to be missed. Meet the entire cast in the lobby after the show for a group photo.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs through June 21. All seats are $12
Children’s theater continues with The Fantasmix: A Superhero Journey Begins! from July 11 to July 26 with a sensory friendly performance on July 13 at 11 a.m.; and The Frog Prince from Aug. 1 to Aug. 9. All seats are $15.
For more information or to order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
——————————————–
Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
PRINCESS TEA PARTY WITH SNOW WHITE!
Calling all little Princes and Princesses! Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a magical morning of fun at a Princess Tea Party with Snow White on Saturday, June 21 at Griswolds Cafe from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. immediately following the closing performance of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! The royal event includes craft time, tea time with cookies from Curtain Call Confections, and a meet and greet with Snow White.
Tickets for the Princess Tea Party are $12. For more information or to order, call the box offie at 631-928-9100.
A scene from the 2024 Setauket Memorial Day Parade. Photo by Rita J. Egan
By Heidi Sutton
‘Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.’ — Unknown
Falling every year on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day honors the heroeswho made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in all branches of the U.S. military. May they never be forgotten. The following communities will commemorate this federal holiday on May 25 and May 26.
Calverton
Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Blvd., Calverton will hold a Memorial Day ceremony on May 26 at 1 p.m. at the re-designed Assembly Area. 631-727-5410
Centerport
The Centerport Fire Department will host a Memorial Day Parade on May 26 at 10 a.m. from Centershore Road, Harrison Drive, east on Mill Dam Road Centerport, southeast on Prospect Road, south on Little Neck Road.Ends at Park Circle, Centerport followed by a ceremony at the memorial monuments in the park. 631-261-5916
Centereach
The Centereach Fire Department will hold its 2nd annual Memorial Day Parade on May 25 at 1 p.m. Parade kicks off at the corner of Horseblock Road and Middle Country Road and ends at the Centereach Fire Department on South Washington Avenue. 631-588-8652
Commack
VFW Elwood-Commack Post 9263 hosts a Memorial Day parade on May 26 at 10 a.m. Kick off is at the Home Depot parking lot at the intersection of Larkfield Road and Jericho Turnpike and head east on Jericho Turnpike to junction at Veterans Highway to Cannon Park for a ceremony. 631-780-4853
East Northport
Father Judge Council Knights of Columbus hosts the East Northport Memorial Day Parade with kick off on May 26 at noon at Clay Pitts and Larkfield roads and proceed to John Walsh Memorial Park. 631-262-1891
Farmingdale
— The annual Farmingdale Memorial Day Parade on May 26 kicks off at1 p.m.. proceeding south on Main Street, ending at Village Hall. Followed by a ceremony on the Village Green.
— Long Island National Cemetery, 2040 Wellwood Ave., Farmingdale will hold a Memorial Day service on May 25 at 2 p.m. 631-454-4949
Farmingville
The Farmingville Fire Department’s annual Memorial Day Parade will be held on May 26 at 11 a.m.Parade starts at CVS on Horseblock Road to the memorial at Nicolls Road and Portion Road. 631-732-6611
Greenlawn
Organized by the Greenlawn Fire Department, a Memorial Day parade will kick off on May 26 at 9 a.m. on East Maple Road, south on Broadway to Greenlawn Memorial Park, at the corner of Pulaski Road and Broadway. 631-261-9103
Kings Park
The annual Kings Park Memorial Day Parade, sponsored by American Legion Post 944, will be held on May 26 at 9 a.m. Kick off is at the corner of Old Dock Road and Church Street to the Veterans Plaza at Route 25A for flag ceremonies. 631-269-4140
Holbrook
Holbrook Chamber of Commerce will host a Memorial Day Parade on May 26 at 11 a.m. Parade begins at 1069 Main St., heads south to Furrow’s Road, west to Grundy and culminates at the Vietnam Memorial. 631-471-2725
Huntington
— The Town of Huntington will host a Wreath Laying Ceremony on May 25 at Veterans Plaza on the front lawn of Huntington Town Hall at 100 Main Street at 10 a.m. 631-351-3012
— American Legion Post 360 will hold a Memorial Day Parade on May 26 at noon. Parade will begin on Gerard Street to West Neck Road, Main Street to Stewart Ave. 631-423-7575
Lake Ronkonkoma
Join AMVETS Post 48 in honoring veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country on May 26, for the Lake Ronkonkoma Veterans Memorial Parade. The parade starts at 10 a.m. on Church Street and ends at Raynor Park for a very special Veterans Ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. 631-615-1428
Parade of Flags at Heritage Park.
Mount Sinai
A Parade of American Flags will be on display at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Rd, Mt Sinai on May 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., courtesy of Boy Scout Troop 1776. 631-403-4846
Northport
Organized by the Northport American Legion Post 694, the parade will begin at 10 a.m. on May 26 at Laurel Avenue School and proceed down Main Street to the Northport Village Park. 631-261-4424
Port Jefferson
American Legion Wilson Ritch Post 432 will perform a Memorial Day ceremony at Port Jefferson Memorial Park, West Broadway, Port Jefferson on May 26 at 10 a.m. 631-473-9774
Port Jefferson Station
Join the American Legion Wilson Ritch Post 432 for a Memorial Day ceremony at Steven J. Crowley Memorial Park on Old Town Road in Port Jefferson Station on May 26 at 9 a.m. 631-473-9774
Rocky Point
The Rocky Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6249, 109 King Road, Rocky Point will host a Memorial Day service to honor the fallen on May 26 at 11 a.m. 631-744-9106
St. James
A Memorial Day Parade organized by Sgt. John W. Cooke VFW Post 395 will be held on May 26 at 10 a.m. The parade steps off at the corner of Lake Avenue and Woodlawn Avenue and proceeds to St. James Elementary School for a ceremony. 631-862-7965
Setauket
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3054 will hold its annual Three Village Memorial Day Parade in Setauket on May 26 at 11 a.m. Parade starts at the corner of Main Street and Route 25A with an opening ceremony at the Village Green across from the library and a closing ceremony at Memorial Park along Route 25A by Se-Port Deli. 631-406-1938
Smithtown
The Smithtown Fire Department hosts its annualMemorial Day Parade on May 26 at noon. Kickoff is at the corner of Main Street and Singer Lane, continuing west on Main Street to Town Hall. 631-360-7620
Sound Beach
The Sound Beach Civic Association will hold a Memorial Day service at the Veterans Memorial Park on New York Avenue in Sound Beach on May 26 at noon. 631-744-6952
Mother’s Day isn’t just about the cards, flowers, or fancy gifts—it’s about spending quality time with loved ones. Here are some fun and affordable ways to celebrate mom on the North Shore this weekend.
Mother’s Day at the LIM
Spend a lovely afternoon with Mom exploring the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on Sunday, May 11 from noon to 5 p.m. Visit the Building the Ballot Box and Colors of Long Island exhibitions, the state of the art Carriage Museum, and stroll the beautiful grounds dotted with art installations, gardens and historic buildings. Free admission for mothers and grandmothers all day! 631-751-0066
Open Weekend at Benner’s Farm
Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will be open to the public on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 from noon to 4 p.m. Come visit a real working farm! See sheep, goats, and chickens, ride the Big Swing and see the new babies born this spring. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and children. 631-689-8172
Portraits at the Vanderbilt Museum
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers live watercolor portrait paintings in the courtyard by local artist Sara Marie Martin on Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Your custom watercolor portrait will be painted within 10 minutes! Fee is $20 per 5″ x 7″ (up to 4 people per painting) payable via cash or Venmo on site.*General admission required. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Mother’s Day at the Whaling Museum
Treat Mom to a special day at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor with free admission with a paid ticket on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. Plus, enjoy a weekend of Mother’s Day crafts. 631-367-3418
Mother’s Day at The Hatchery
Celebrate Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission for Moms when accompanied by their children. 516-692-6768
The signs were already there with empty shelves that were never restocked but now it’s official. Rite Aid Pharmacy announced on May 5 that the business will be selling or closing all of its locations in the next few months, including 178 in New York, as it files for Chapter 11 proceedings for the second time in less than two years. The company currently operates 1,245 stores in 15 states, according to its website.
During this process, Rite Aid customers can continue to access pharmacy services and products in stores and online, including prescriptions and immunizations. In connection with the sale process and court-supervised proceedings, the Company is working to facilitate a smooth transfer of customer prescriptions to other pharmacies, according to the press release.
“For more than 60 years, Rite Aid has been a proud provider of pharmacy services and products to our loyal customers. While we have continued to face financial challenges, intensified by the rapidly evolving retail and healthcare landscapes in which we operate, we are encouraged by meaningful interest from a number of potential national and regional strategic acquirors. As we move forward, our key priorities are ensuring uninterrupted pharmacy services for our customers and preserving jobs for as many associates as possible,” said Matt Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer of Rite Aid.
“I will be forever grateful to our thousands of associates for their commitment to Rite Aid and its mission, and I thank our entire team – from store associates to corporate employees – for their dedication to our customers and our company. With their support, we have played a critical role in supporting the healthcare needs of countless Americans across the communities that we are honored to serve,” Schroeder added.
Following the announcement, Rite Aid posted on its website that starting May 6 Rite Aid Rewards points will no longer be issued for qualifying purchases. All accrued points and BonusCash will expire per standard terms & conditions available at riteaid.com/rewards/terms-and-conditions.
The website also said that Rite Aid would no longer honor Rite Aid gift cards or accept any returns or exchanges beginning June 5.
To support Rite Aid during its sale process, which it intends to conduct under section 363 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the Company has secured commitments from certain of its existing lenders to access $1.94 billion in new financing. This financing, along with cash from operations, is expected to provide sufficient funding during the sale and court-supervised process. The Company intends to divest or monetize any assets that are not sold through the court-supervised process. Rite Aid has filed a number of customary motions with the Court seeking authorization to support operations, including continued payment of employee wages and benefits, according to the release.
Currently there are 12 Rite Aids in Suffolk County, including Eastport, Hampton Bays, Huntington, Kings Park, Lindenhurst, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, North Babylon, Selden, Shirley, Southampton, and West Islip. Stores will begin to close or be sold within the next few months.
For a full list of New York Rite Aid locations, click here.
Welcome to the 40th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home.
Simon
Meet Simon
“Simon says, only do what Simon says.” Full of demands, this bossy little seven -year-old Chihuahua mix at Little Shelter in Huntington is confident he’ll soon have you in the palm of his hand, or paw, as the case may be! Looking for someone to do his bidding while taking care of his every need, he promises to be a true blue friend in return, making himself indispensable. Typical of his breed, he is small in stature, big on spicy personality, somewhat judgmental, and loyal to a fault. Reported to love toys, he’s first in line for playtime, doubling down on the fun factor. Then, ready for a power nap, he’ll burrow into his blankets and disappear, only to awake refreshed and ready for round two. Time for a “pup-grade”?Simon says, stop by to meet me today! 631-368-8770
Norman Rockwell
Meet Norman Rockwell
Handsome Rockwell was found as a stray and never claimed at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. Approximately two years old and weighing 55 pounds, this guy is fun all of the time! He needs a little help focusing on his training, but he wants to please you and he wants to play all day long. Norman would do best in a home without cats and that can provide an active life with lots of walks. 631-360-7575
Spunky
Meet Spunky
Fitting the definition of energetic, courageous, and determined, meet Spunky, a three -year-old Terrier mix available for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. In the prime of his life, this active fellow loves walks, toys, pets, and scratches. Very fond of the pack of pups he arrived with, he would also love to have (though not required) a “sibling” in his new home. Undeniably handsome with his lush, flowing coat, he nevertheless knows that it’s what’s inside that truly matters. Dogs don’t need words to teach us loyalty, love, or forgiveness…they carry it in their wagging tails and warm eyes. Add some Spunk(y) to your day by day…stop by to meet this fellow soon!
“My heart just grew four paws.”
*Spunky is fully grown and mostly housebroken*
Meet Stark
This handsome boy is Stark, a 13-year-old domestic long-haired Ragdoll mix with a heart as soft as his fur. Stark came to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter from a difficult situation, but his resilience and loving personality have truly shone through. Stark is a diabetic, but don’t let that scare you—his condition is well-managed with a simple once-daily oral glucose-regulating medication and a prescription diet. Despite his medical needs, Stark is a happy, affectionate, and easygoing guy who just wants a family to call his own. He is also good with other cats! If you’re ready to give Stark the forever home he deserves, come meet him today. Let’s show this sweet boy what love and stability truly feels like! 631-451-6955
Meet Finn
Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton has many cats available for adoption including Finn, a sweet 8-month-old tabby cat who likes baskets and stuffed animals! Come meet him today! 631-727-5731
——————————————
Free rabies vaccination clinic
The Suffolk County Department of Health Services in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven. Although the clinic is available to all county residents, the quantity of vaccine is limited and available only while supplies last. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats and ferrets must be in carriers.
New York State and Suffolk County laws require that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only provides protection for the animals but also acts as a barrier to keep the rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people.
“Take the time to protect your beloved pets against rabies. They give us so much joy and love and deserve to be kept safe,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. For more information, call 631-451-6950.
Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.
Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of May 15.
Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.
Take part in a community clean-up event during Earth Day. Photo courtesy of Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce
By Heidi Sutton
Whether you choose to participate in a beach or park clean-up, nature walk or a fun festival, there are plenty of ways to show your love for the planet for Earth Day over the next few weeks.
Huntington
Family Fun Earth Day Celebration
Town of Huntington hosts a family-friendly Earth Day celebration at Manor Farm Park, 210 Manor Road, Huntington on Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy arts & crafts, Touch a Truck, live music, a marine touch tank, beekeeping demonstrations, storytime, giveaways and much more. 631-351-3175
Melville
Earth Day Celebration – This event has been postponed to May 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
West Hills County Park, Sweet Hollow Road, Melville and Suffolk County Leg. Rebecca Sanin will host an Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a DDR horse show, live poetry readings and music, lawn games, farmers market, food vendors, environmental information booths and free giveaways. No registration necessary. 631-854-5100
Mount Sinai
Community Beach Clean-Up
Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at the Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mount Sinai on Saturday, April 19 at 2 p.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].
Port Jefferson Station
Greenway Trail Cleanup
In celebration of Earth Day, the Three Village Community Trust will host a Friends of the Greenway trail clean-up at the Port Jefferson Station trailhead (parking lot by Rte. 112/Hallock Avenue) on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Ronkonkoma
Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup
Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup at Lily Pond County Park, Smithtown Blvd., Lake Ronkonkoma on Tuesday, April 22 at 8 a.m.in celebration of Earth Day and in memory of Diane Spitz, who spent many years as unofficial caretaker of the Park. Please bring gloves and bags. Email [email protected] to register.
Shoreham
Metal for Tesla
Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, 5 Randall Rd, Shoreham will host its annual Metal for Tesla scrap metal drop-off event (appliances, car parts, shelving etc.) in honor of Earth Day on Saturday, April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 631-886-2632
Smithtown
Earth Day at Sweetbriar
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown invites the community to an Earth Day is Every Day celebration on Sunday, April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. Children will meet resident animals, make a craft and go on a scavenger hunt to find out some of the things they can do to help the natural world. Best for families with children over 4 years old. $15 per child, $5 per adults. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. For more info, call 631-979-6344.
Stony Brook
Earthstock Festival at SBU
The signature Earthstock Festival returns to Stony Brook University’s West campus, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Friday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendors, live music, a duck race, lots of activities and performances. Free and open to all. Visit www.stonybrook.edu/earthstock.
Community Beach Clean-Up
Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook on Saturday, April 19 at 10 a.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].
Train Station Beautification Project
The Three Village Community Trust invites the community to join them for the Stony Brook Train Station Beautification Project on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for Earth Day. The group will be weeding, clearing fallen branches, removing litter, de-vining trees, and other tasks to beautify the Station. Bring your gloves and garden tools. 631-942-4558
Wading River
SWR Earth Day Cleanup
The Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce invites the community toparticipate in an Earth Day Clean-up event on Sunday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River for a day of environmental stewardship. Supplies will be provided or feel free to bring you own. Community service credits available. Held rain or shine. Register at www.wadingrivershorehamchamber.com.
What’s more fun than an Easter egg hunt? Here is a list of egg hunts on the North Shore for this weekend and next weekend so grab your baskets and a camera and hippity hop over to these fun springtime celebrations.
Cold Spring Harbor
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will hold an Egg Hunt for children ages 0 to 6 on April 12, 13, 17, 18 and 19 with 20 minute sessions scheduled throughout the day. Fee is $12 per participating child, $5 helper siblings ages 7 to 12, $7 adults, $6 seniors. Children must be accompanied by a parent. By reservation only at www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768
Commack
Burr Intermediate School, 202 Burr Road, Commack hosts a free egg hunt with over 4,000 eggs on April 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with games, prizes, special golden eggs and a free photo of your child with the Easter Bunny. Register at www.commackegghunt.com. 631-486-3811
East Northport
Island Christian Church, 400 Elwood Road, East Northport will host a free Easter Egg Hunt on April 19from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Activities will include face painting, crafts, games, bounce houses, photo-ops, and of course, hunting for eggs! You may even see the Easter Bunny! Held rain or shine. Free. Visit islandchristian.com/easter to register. 631-822-3000
East Setauket
Benner’s Farm hosts their Easter Egg Hunt Weekend on April 18, 19 and 20 this year. File photo by Rita J. Egan/ TBR News Media
— Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt celebration on April 18, 19 and 20 with craft vendors, barnyard animals to see and hold, an egg hunt in the fields (at your purchased time slot), pictures with the Spring Bunny and more! This is a ticketed event only. Tickets are sold online only for $13.50 per person. To register, visit www.bennersfarm.com. 631-689-8172
— Three Village Church, 322 Main St., East Setauket invites children up to 5th grade to an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. with games, story time, crafts, face painting and more. No tickets needed. Free. 631-941-3670
Farmingdale
— The American Airpower Museum, Hangar 3, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. along with an Easter Tram Rides, photos with the Easter Bunny and visit their“Bunny Patch” to adopt your very own plush toy bunny or chick!No pre-registration or tickets required. Admission for adults $20, seniors/vets $15, kids ages 3-12 $10. 631-293-6398
— Village of Farmingdale hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt for children up to 11 years old on April 12 on the Village Green, 361 Main St., Farmingdale at 11 a.m. followed by photos with the Easter Bunny. Free. Rain date is April 13 at 2 p.m. 516-249-0093
— Stew Leonard’s, 261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale hosts an Easter egg hunt on April 15 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Take photos with the bunny and collect eggs filled with candy and other prizes from costumed characters. Free for ages 8 and younger. Get tickets at eventbrite.com. 516-962-8210
Farmingville
Farmingville Historical Society will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt at Arboretum Park, 10 Maple Lane, Farmingville on April 19 at various times from noon to 3 p.m. Embark on an Easter Egg Adventure into the historic firehouse for fun activities, meet a real life bunny and take a photo with the Easter Bunny. $15 per child. Register at FHSLI.org.
Flanders
Children ages 2 to 9 are invited to join anEaster egg hunt for “duck” eggs at The Big Duck Ranch, 1012 Flanders Road, Flanders on April 19 at noon. Prizes will be given out for the winners in each age group. Bring your camera for photo ops with the Easter Bunny. The Long Island Duck Farming exhibit will also be open to the public. Free. Rain date is April 26. 631-284-3737.
Huntington
Children ages 1 to 8 can enjoy a spring celebration and egg hunt at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington on April 19 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Activities including a petting zoo, arts and crafts, a meet and greet with Mr. Bunny and a special concert by FunikiJam. $20 per child. Held rain or shine. Register at www.caumsettfoundation.org/programs.
Melville
Take part in an Easter Egg Hunt at White Post Farms, 250 Old Country Road, Melvilleon April 12 to 13 and April 14 to 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meet the Easter Bunny, visit the bunny holding station, see a magic show and much more. Admission is $29.95. 631-351-9373
Port Jefferson
Meet the Easter Bunny at the annual Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce sponsored Easter event on April 19. Photo by Kyle Barr
Children ages 2 to 8 are invited to join the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce for an Easter Egg Hunt following the annual Easter Parade in the Village of Port Jefferson along Main Street on April 19 at 12:45 p.m. Line up in front of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson at 1 p.m. after the parade. Photo ops with the Easter Bunny will be from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. Free. 631-473-1414
Port Jefferson Station
Brightview Senior Living, 1175 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station will host an Easter egg hunt, storytime fun with local children’s authors, photos with the Easter Bunny and a special Easter basket raffle on April 13 from noon to 4 p.m. Reserve your spot at www.eventbrite.com.
Rocky Point – just added!
The Rocky Point annual Easter egg hunt for ages infant to 5th grade will be held at Robert Miner Park, aka Rocketship Park, Hallock Landing Road, Rocky Point on April 15 at 11 a.m. (egg hunt at noon) with face painting and tattoos. Photos with the Easter Bunny are $5.
St. James – rescheduled to April 19
Children can hunt for Easter eggs at Deepwells Farm in St. James on April 19. Photo by Greg Catalano
St. James Chamber of Commerce will host a Spring Egg Hunt for children ages 1 to 10 at Deepwells Farm, 2 Tayor Lane, St. James on April 19 at 1 p.m. with a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny. Free. No rain date. 631-584-5810
Selden – This event has been canceled due to the weather.
Join Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Manzella and the Middle Country Youth Civic Association for a community Easter egg hunt at Veterans Park, Boyle Road, Selden on April 12 from 10 a.m. to noon. Free. 631-451-6647
Setauket
Caroline Episcopal Church, 18 Caroline Ave., Setauket hosts a community Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy games, prizes, snacks, a live magic show, face painting, an Easter hat contest, hat parade and a special long-eared guest. Free. Register online at carolinechurch.net/egghunt2025 631-941-4245
Smithtown – rescheduled to rain date of April 13
Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for a Spring Festival and Egg Hunt on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with musical entertainment by Lena and the Happy Clam Band, games, animal presentations, crafts, face painting, pony rides, egg hunts, and a visit by the Easter Bunny. $25 children, $5 adults. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
Wading River – rescheduled to April 13 and April 19
Bakewicz Farms, 291 Route 25A, Wading River will hold an Easter egg hunt on April 13 and April 19 at 1:30 p.m. Every child will leave with eggs filled with candy, stickers, and toys. Enjoy face painting and take pictures with the Easter bunny. $15 per child. For tickets, visit www.bakewiczfarmsny.com.
Welcome to the 40th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home.
Meet Finn
What’s more fun than an Easter egg hunt? Here is a list of egg hunts on the North Shore for this weekend and next weekend so grab your baskets and a camera and hippity hop over to these fun springtime celebrations.
