Arts & Lifestyles - June 15, 2023

Photo

WMHO's Summer Soirée to auction off special painting

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization has announced the in-person return of its annual fundraiser, the Summer Soirée. The event will be held on Thursday, June 22 at the newly renovated Three Village Inn in Stony Brook, “where it all began.”

The event will raise funds to support the restoration of the 20’ wooden eagle that is affixed to the pediment above the Stony Brook Post Office. This beloved local and national treasure has flapped its wings every hour on the hour for over 80 years.

Funds raised will also support two new engines for the Discovery Pontoon boat, digitizing Ward Melville’s archives, repairs to the roof at the Brewster House (c.1665), a new exhibit at the Thompson House (c.1709), as well as education programs.

The benefit will honor community members Katharine Griffiths, Director of Avalon Park and Preserve; Olivia and Harlan

In this edition

Fischer; Sally Lynch, President of Old Field Farm Ltd.; Nicole Sarno, Business Managing Director, Business Banking, Webster Bank; and awarded posthumously, philanthropist Judi Betts.

One of the highlights of the event will be a live auction where one of the many wonderful items will be a painting of the Stony Brook Post Office by Setauket artist Dino Rinaldi who has been working on creating this beautiful work of art on the Village Green over the last few weeks.

The WMHO will take phone call bids for the painting from the public until 5 p.m. on June 21. Valued at $1,200, bids for the painting will begin at $400. The successful bidder of the painting will be announced on June 22 and will receive a phone call or email the following day.

For further information, please call 631751-2244.

The Stony Brook Post Office by Dino Rinaldi

PORT JEFFERSON DERMATOLOGY

SBU's Justice Achonu elected to national panel

Justice Achonu, MD, an orthopaedic surgery resident at Stony Brook Medicine, is one of four orthopaedic surgeons in the U.S. to be selected for the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery’s (ABOS) Resident Advisory Panel. Responsible for providing insight into the resident experience, the panel collaborates with multiple other committees within the ABOS to support the interests of residents throughout the country. His twoyear term on the panel begins July 1, 2023.

According to the ABOS, each applicant to the panel is reviewed by at least two ABOS Board members who are all accomplished leaders in their field. Applicants practice in all regions of the country. Dr. Achonu’s panel cohort is the third ever selected by the ABOS. Every year, the panel is tasked with identifying and completing a project that will benefit orthopaedic residents across more than 200 accredited training programs nationwide.

Noun

A Doctor who is board-certi ed in Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery by the American Board of Dermatology. An expert in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails. A physician specialist who has completed four years of medical school, one year of internship, and three or more years of residency training in Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.

Panelists are encouraged to provide the ABOS with recommendations, several of which have been adopted by the Board, including an official Residency to Retirement Roadmap.

Dr. Achonu received a B.S. in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh in 2015 and graduated from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University in 2020. He resides in Holbrook.

Stony Brook’s Department of Orthopaedics provides full-service patient care and subspecialty resident and faculty training in all areas of Orthopaedics. The department includes a comprehensive Orthopaedic Research Program featuring clinical and laboratory facilities and resources for investigation of molecular, biologic, and biomechanical research topics.

Peter A. Klein, MD • Adam J. Korzenko, MD

Brett M. Dolgin, DO • Wil D. Tutrone, MD Vanita Srivastava, DO

Dr. Justice Achonu

Photo by Jeanne Neville/ Stony Brook Medicine

SBU's Ali Khosronejad scores NSF funds to create AI ood program

much more frequently. In one or two decades, such a flood might occur every 10 years.

Adding updated data can allow practitioners to make adjustments to the AI program a decade down the road, he suggested. He and his team will add data every year, which will create a more versatile model.

What it can’t do

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

An approaching weather front brings heavy rains and a storm surge, threatening to inundate homes and businesses with dangerous water and potentially undermining critical infrastructure like bridges.

projects,” Khosronejad explained and he hopes that continues with this research.

KNOWLEDGE SEEKERS

Once officials figure out the amount of water that will affect an area, they can either send out inspectors to survey the exact damage or they can use models that take time to process and analyze the likely damage.

Ali Khosronejad, Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Stony Brook University, hopes to use artificial intelligence to change that.

Khosronejad recently received $550,000 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for four years to create a high-fidelity model using artificial intelligence that will predict the flood impact on infrastructure. The funds, which will be available starting on June 20, will support two PhD students who will work to provide an artificial intelligencebased program that can work on a single laptop at a “fraction of the cost of more advanced modeling approaches,” Khosronejad said during an interview in Madrid, Spain, where he is on sabbatical leave under a Fulbright U.S Senior Scholar Award. He is doing his Fulbright research at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid.

Stony Brook University will also provide some funding for these students, which will help defray the cost of expenses related to traveling and attending conferences and publishing papers.

In the past, Stony Brook has been “quite generous when it comes to supporting graduate students working on federally funded

Khosronejad and his students will work with about 50 different flooding and terrain scenarios, which will cover about 95 percent of extreme flooding. These 50 possibilities will cover a range of waterways, infrastructure, topography, and coastal areas. The researchers will feed data into their high fidelity supercomputing cluster simulations to train artificial intelligence to assess the likely damage from a flood.

As they build the model, Khosronejad explained that they will collect data from floods, feed them into the computer and test how well the computer predicts the kind of flooding that has can cause damage or threaten the stability of structures like bridges. Over the next four years, the team will collect data from the Departments of Transportation in California, Minnesota and New York.

Nearly six years ago, his team attempted to use algorithms available in ChatGPT for some of his AI development. Those algorithms, however, didn’t predict flood flow prediction. He tried to develop new algorithms based on convolutional neural networks. Working with CNN, he attempted to improve its capabilities by including some physics-based constraints.

“We are very enthusiastic about this,” Khosronejad said. “We do think that this opportunity can help us to open up the use of AI for other applications in fluid mechanics” in fields such as renewable energy, contaminant transport predictions in urban areas and biological flow predictions, among others.

Planners working with groups such as the California Department of Transportation could use such a program to emphasize which infrastructure might be endangered.

This analysis could highlight effective mitigation strategies. Artificial intelligence can “provide [planners and strategists] with a tool that is not that expensive, can run on a single laptop, can reproduce lots of scenarios with flooding, to figure out which infrastructure is really in danger,” Khosronejad said. Specifically, this tool could evaluate the impact of extreme floods on bridge foundations. Floods can remove soil from around the foundation of a bridge, which can cause it to collapse. Civil engineers can strengthen bridge foundations and mitigate the effect of future floods by using riprap, which is a layer of large stones.

This kind of program can reduce the reliance on surveying after a flood, which is expensive and sometimes “logistically impossible and unsafe” to monitor areas like the foundations of bridges, Khosronejad said. He plans to build into the AI program an awareness of the changing climate, so that predictions using it in three or five years can provide an accurate reflection of future conditions.

“Floods are getting more and more extreme” he said. “We realize that floods we feed into the program during training will be different" from the ones that will cause damage in subsequent years.

Floods that had a return period of every 100 years are now happening

While the AI programs will predict the damage to infrastructure from floods, they will not address storm or flood predictions.

“Those are different models, based on the movement of clouds” and other variables, Khosronejad said. “This doesn’t do that: if you give the program a range of flood magnitudes, it will tell you what will happen.”

High fidelity models currently exist that can do what Khosronejad is proposing, although those models require hundreds of CPUs to run for five months. Khosronejad has developed his own in house high fidelity model that is capable of making similar predictions. He has tested it to examine various infrastructures and used it to study various flooding events. These models are expensive, which is why he’s trying to replace them with AI to reduce the cost while maintaining fidelity.

AI, on the other hand, can run on a single CPU and may be able to provide the same result, which will allow people to plan ahead before it happens. The NSF approved the single principal investigator concept two months ago.

Khosronejad has worked with Fotis Sotiropoulos, former Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Stony Brook and current Provost at Virginia Commonwealth University, on this and other projects.

The two have bi-weekly discussions over the weekend to discuss various projects.

Sotiropoulos was “very happy” when Khosronejad told him he received the funds. Although he’s not a part of the project, Sotiropoulos will “provide inputs.”

Sotiropoulos has “deep insights” into fluid mechanics. “When you have him on your side, it always pays off,” Khosronejad said.

Harnessing the Technology of our Research Giants

Ali Khosronejad in front of the Santa Maria Cathedral, which is considered the rst modern cathedral in Madrid.

Look At What Patients Are Saying!

Autoimmune diseaseInflammatory Bowel Disease - Crohn’s The results I have seen have been Impressive. I was already eating well, but it makes a difference with the lifestyle changes made by Dr. Dunaief – demonstrated by the significant reduction in inflammation in my Crohn’s disease. My husband was wrong- I could improve and did improve- he thought there was nothing we could do to improve the WFPBD (whole-food plant-based diet). My inflammation has never been so low. I originally went to see Dr. Dunaief because I had pneumonia from a suppressed immune system with the medication I was taking. The pneumonia was so bad, it scared me. Finally, after being beholden to the medication (Remicade) to treat Crohn’s disease for 14 years, I was able to stop it. Female, age 47

News Around Town

Yoga at the Vanderbilt

MEDICAL COMPASS

Hypertension, also commonly called “high blood pressure,” is pervasive in the U.S., affecting approximately 47 percent of adults over 18 (1). Since 2017, hypertension severity has been categorized into three stages, each with its recommended treatment regimen.

BY DAVID DUNAIEF, MD

One of the most interesting shifts with this recategorization was the recategorization of what we used to call “prehypertension” into what we now call “elevated” blood pressure and “hypertension stage 1.”

Elevated blood pressure is defined as systolic blood pressure (the top number) of 120-129 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) of less than 80 mmHg, while Stage 1 includes systolic blood pressure of 130139 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of 80-89 mmHg (2). A simple chart of all levels can be found on The American Heart Association’s website at www.heart.org.

Both elevated blood pressure and stage 1 hypertension have significant consequences, even though there are often no symptoms. For example, they increase the risks of cardiovascular disease and heart attack dramatically.

In an analysis of the Framingham Heart Study, researchers found a 3.5-fold increase in the risk of heart attack and a 1.7-fold increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease among those with prehypertension (3). This is why it’s crucial to address it, even in these early stages.

Another study, the Women’s Health Initiative, which followed more than 60,000 postmenopausal women for an average of 7.7 years, showed an increase in heart attack deaths, heart attacks and strokes compared to those with normal blood pressure (less than 120/80 mmHg). In the Strong Heart Study, prehypertension independently increased the risk for cardiovascular events at 12 years significantly (4).

The good news is that, over the last decade, new and extended studies have given us better clarity about treatments, stratifying approaches to ensure the best outcomes.

Do you need to treat elevated blood pressure?

In my view, it would be foolish not to treat elevated blood pressure. Updated treatment recommendations, according to the Joint National Commission (JNC) 8, the association responsible for guidelines on the treatment of hypertension, include lifestyle modifications (5).

Eating potassium-rich foods may improve your outcomes

Lifestyle changes include dietary changes. A Mediterranean-type diet or the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet are both options. It’s important to focus on fruits, vegetables, sodium reduction to a maximum of 1500 mg (2/3 of a teaspoon on a daily basis), exercise, weight loss and no more than moderate amounts of alcohol (1 or fewer drinks for women and 2 or fewer drinks for men on a daily basis) (6).

Some studies have also shown that a diet rich in potassium helps to reduce blood pressure (7). Fortunately, foods like fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes have significant amounts of potassium. However, do not take potassium supplements unless instructed for other reasons by a physician; high potassium can be very dangerous and may precipitate a heart attack.

Some drugmakers advocate for using medication with those who have elevated blood pressure. The Trial of Preventing Hypertension (TROPHY) suggests the use of a hypotensive agent, the blood pressure drug Atacand (candesartan) to treat prehypertensive patients (8)(9). The drug reduced the incidence of hypertension significantly compared to placebo over two years. However, after stopping therapy, the following two years showed only a small benefit over placebo. Still, the authors implied that this may be a plausible treatment. The study was funded by Astra-Zeneca, which makes the drug.

In an editorial, Jay I. Meltze, M.D., a clinical specialist in hypertension at Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, noted that the results were interpreted in an unusually favorable way (10).

Elevated blood pressure has been shown to respond well to lifestyle changes – so why add medication when there are no long-term

benefits? I don’t recommend treating elevated blood pressure patients with medication. Thankfully, the JNC8 agrees.

Do lifestyle changes help with Stage 1 hypertension?

For those with Stage 1 hypertension, but with a low 10-year risk of cardiovascular events, these same lifestyle modifications should be implemented for three-to-six months. At this point, a reassessment of risk and blood pressure should determine whether the patient should continue with lifestyle changes or needs to be treated with medications (11).

It’s important to note that your risk should be assessed by your physician.

I am encouraged that the role of lifestyle modifications in controlling hypertension has been recognized and is influencing official recommendations. When patients and physicians collaborate on a lifestyle approach that drives improvements, the side effects are only better overall health.

References:

(1) cdc.gov. (2) heart.org. (3) Stroke 2005; 36: 1859–1863. (4) Hypertension 2006;47:410-414. (5) Am Fam Physician. 2014 Oct 1;90(7):503-504. (6)

J Am Coll Cardiol. 2018 May, 71 (19) 2176–2198.

(7) Archives of Internal Medicine 2001;161:589593. (8) N Engl J Med. 2006;354:1685-1697. (9)

J Am Soc Hypertens. Jan-Feb 2008;2(1):39-43.

(10) Am J Hypertens. 2006;19:1098-1100. (11) Hypertension. 2021 Jun;77(6):e58-e67.

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.

Pop Up Prana Yoga will offer back-toback offerings of Yin & Restore Yoga in the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Reichert Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport on Sunday, June 18 at 5:30 p.m. and again at 8 pm. Check-ins begin at 5:15 and 7:45 pm. (Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the session.) Join Jenn Eagen in a 60-minute yin yoga session. “You’ll surrender your senses while we incorporate stillness and empowerment to your practice below the expansive digital sky.”

This class will include a fusion of yin, restorative postures, and mindful movement blended with relaxing asanas, and conclude with a guided yoga nidra. To maximize your comfort please bring your own props, including a blanket and block. Tickets are $37 per person. To reserve your spot, visit www. popupranayoga.com.

Volunteers wanted

Three Village Community Trust's Friends of the Greenway will host its monthly cleanup of the Greenway Trail on Saturday, June 17 starting at 9 a.m. in the Port Jefferson Station trailhead parking lot off Route 112 next to Port Jeff Bowl. Come help keep our community gem clean as we get ready for the summer. Questions? Email cfmcateer@gmail.com.

Senior Safety Presentation

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North Country Road, Mount Sinai invites the surrounding community to attend a free "Senior Safety" presentation by Officer Sergio Moller on Wednesday, June 21 at 2 p.m. in Voorhees Hall. The presentation will cover cons and scams, personal protection, shopping and banking, ID theft, safety on the road, home protection, and services for seniors. Call Jayne at the church office to reserve your seat. 631-473-1582.

Call to Artists

Northport Arts Coalition is now accepting applications from artists and artisans for its annual Art in the Park event at Northport Village Park on Sunday, Aug. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All crafts must be handmade by the artist — no kits, manufactured items, purchased pieces, imports or resale items will be permitted. 10' X 10' artist space is $100, $80 for NAC members. Only 40 spaces are available. Deadline to apply is June 30. Visit www.northportarts.org for an application or call 631-261-1872. See more Vendors Wanted listings on page B19.

Send your calendar events to leisure@tbrnewspapers.com

Lifestyle changes can make a difference when you have hypertension

•Join Su olk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for a A Night of Pride on Thursday, June 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. Celebrate love and community with an evening lled with games, fun, history, art, food trucks, and Laser Shows featuring the music of Queen, David Bowie, and Taylor Swift. Tickets are $10 adults, children under 5 free. All proceeds will be donated to local LGBTQIA+ charities. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

•The Greater Port Je erson Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Sounds on the Sound Port Je erson Sunset Cruise on Friday, June 30 from 6:30 to 9:15 p.m. featuring a performance by Dr. K's Motown Revue (Motown tribute band). For ages 21 and over. General tickets are $45, VIP tickets are $65 at www.portje chamber.com. For more information, call 631-473-1414.

•Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park & Children's Zoo, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville will launch its rst-ever local Artisan Vendor Market featuring planting propagation, wool felting, and oral painting demonstrations, local plant and product sales, and more on Saturday, June 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 631-878-6644.

•Town of Smithtown's Anti-Bias Task Force and Youth Bureau will host the 2nd annual Family Pride Picnic at Schubert's Beach, Long Beach Road,Nissequogue on Monday, June 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month with food, crafts and music at this family-friendly community gathering. Pack a picnic dinner and they will take care of beverages, snacks and dessert. Register at bit.ly/43oUnQ6. 631-360-7595

•Rocky Point Civic Association will host a Rocky Point Garden Tour on Saturday, July 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are available at Flowers on Broadway, 43 Broadway, Rocky Point and Heritage Paint, 637 Route 25A, Rocky Point. $20 per person, children under 12 free w/parent. 631-521-5726

•Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown holds an Owl Prowl on Friday, June 23 from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person at www. sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

TV Dads CLUES ACROSS

1. Necklace lock

6. Blue

9. *Mr. Micelli in "Who's the Boss"

13. The Tortoise and the Hare, e.g.

14. Beer acronym

15. Check recipient

16. Angler's basket

17. Circle part

18. "Orange" warning

19. *Mr. Keaton in "Family Ties"

21. *Mr. Cunningham in "Happy Days"

23. Dad's o spring

24. "Jack and the Beanstalk" instrument

25. General Post O ce

28. Plural of cecum

30. Pompous windbag

35. Not written

37. Scotch ingredient

39. Complain

40. Spanish surrealist Joan

41. Formed #17 Across

43. Press back arrow key

44. Not odds

46. "Musical" constellation

47. Backgammon predecessor

48. Louisiana music genre

50. Aware of

52. Jeans brand

CLUES DOWN

1. Olden-day aerosol can propellant, acr.

2. Lawrence, for short

3. Aid and ____

4. Like gelled hair

5. Relating to pelvis

6. a.k.a. Xi'an

7. Credit card rate, acr.

8. Putin's country house, e.g.

9. Samoan money

10. Deed hearing

11. Egghead

12. Up to the present time

15. a.k.a. melon tree

20. Organ swelling

22. What organza and forgiveness have in common

24. Calm and peaceful

53. In a little while, old-fashioned

55. Old age, old-fashioned

57. *Mr. White "Breaking Bad"

60. *Mr. Stark "Game of Thrones"

63. Ru e on a blouse

64. Determine the sum

66. Feline sound

68. Bronze, e.g.

69. Chasing game

70. "All joking ____"

71. Big Bang's original matter

72. Compass bearing

73. Type of stocking

Answers to last week's puzzle: The 1990s

25. *Mr. Addams "The Addams Family"

26. Outhouse

27. Propelled like Argo

29. *Mr. Winslow in "Family Matters"

31. Give the cold shoulder

32. Twofold

33. *Mr. Johnson in "Black-ish"

34. Glittery stone

36. Like certain Ranger

38. Seaside bird

42. Old hat

45. Scatterbrained, in U.K.

49. Top seed

51. Nickname for dad (2 words)

54. Speak like Cicero

56. ____ Buchanan of "The Great Gatsby"

57. China's Great one

Directions: Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all digits 1 through 9.

Answers to last week's SUDOKU S U D O K U P U Z Z L E

Answers

58. Often goes with "willing"

59. Rumpelstiltskin's weaver

60. Upper hand

61. Not top-shelf

62. Popular symbol of extinction

63. *Mr. Pritchett in "Modern Family"

65. *Mr. Conner in "Roseanne"

67. Skin cyst

John Porchia appointed to SCWA board

Kazemier, Paliotta promoted at NYCBS

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS) has announced the appointments of Paul Kazemier to Senior Vice President of Patient Communications and Kathryn Paliotta to Vice President of Patient Communications.

BUSINESS

The Suffolk County Legislature has appointed John M. Porchia, III of Wading River to the Board of the Suffolk County Water Authority. The unanimous vote came at the June 6 general meeting of the Legislature. He will serve the remainder of a five-year term that expires on May 28th, 2027. The seat was vacated by Charles Lefkowitz when he was appointed as Chairman of the SCWA Board.

“I am honored to be chosen by the Legislature to serve in this important position and am excited to get to work, serving the customers,” said Porchia. “We live in a great place that I am proud to call my home. We need to keep Suffolk County affordable for everyone and maintaining the already very low rates on our water bills is a part of that. I also know there are huge tasks ahead for SCWA to keep our water free of contaminants and protect our aquifer for future generations. I plan to bring my experience and knowledge to help tackle those challenges.”

Porchia is a practicing personal injury attorney with 20 years of experience. He specializes in motor vehicles accident, premise liability and job site accidents.

“John is going to bring an important perspective to the SCWA Board with his extensive experience,” said SCWA Chairman Lefkowitz. “He has a record of success throughout his professional career, and I am confident he will bring that skill with him to SCWA. I look forward to seeing his contributions to the organization.”

"Paul's appointment as Senior Vice President of Patient Communications is a testament to his exceptional leadership in overseeing a team of over 275+ employees and his continued dedication to enhancing patient communication," said Jeff Vacirca, MD, CEO of NYCBS. "His forwardthinking approach and adaptability to change will enable the organization to achieve improved outcomes for healthcare providers and patients, demonstrating our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our partners, patients, and the community.”

“Kathryn's dedication and leadership have been invaluable to our organization, and we are thrilled to recognize her contributions with this well-deserved promotion," said Vacirca. “Her extensive clinical background, coupled with her ability to effectively manage our patient communication departments, has allowed us to provide even better care and support to our patients. We look forward to seeing her continued success in her new role as Vice President of Patient Communications.”

"I am incredibly grateful for this promotion and the opportunity to continue to lead and grow my departments. It means the world to me,” said Kazemier. “My goal is to not only ensure the highest level of patient satisfaction and experience but also to foster an environment where employees can grow within the company and achieve their own success."

"I am immensely grateful to have found my niche,” Paliotta said. “Working for an organization as diverse as ours has afforded me the privilege to care for patients across various specialties. I have also had the pleasure to learn from an inspiring group of mentors and look forward to growing my career at NYCBS.” For more information, visit nycancer.com.

John M. Porchia III Photo from SCWA

Paul Kazemier Kathryn Paliotta

The Giant Silk Moths of Long Island

BY JOHN L. TURNER

On my way to redeem some bottles, involving some brands of craft beer that were thoroughly enjoyable, I did a double take passing by what I thought was a small bit of wind-blown garbage, moved by a gentle breeze, along the curb in a supermarket parking lot. Something about its movement caught my eye though and upon a closer look this was no multi-colored piece of trash but rather was something alive, fluttering weakly against the curb. Bending down to take a closer look I suddenly realized I was staring, improbably, at a male Polyphemus Moth (I could tell it was a male by its quite feathery antennae).

Their rarity, paired with exceptional beauty, makes seeing a member of the Giant Silk moth family a special visual treat.

NATURE MATTERS

I picked the moth up and moved it out of harm’s way, placing it under a nearby row of shrubs, realizing all I did was buy it a little more time free from a certain death by a car tire or pedestrian foot. Having no mouth with which it can feed (all of its energy is carried over from the caterpillar stage) a trait it shares with related species, its life as an adult is short-lived.

The Polyphemus Moth is one of more than a dozen species of Giant Silk Moths found on Long Island. This family contains some of the largest moths in the world and they range from attractive to beautiful to spectacular.

Take the Polyphemus Moth as an example. Tan colored with bands of peach on the forewings and black on the hind wings, the moth has four eye spots with the two on the hind wings being especially prominent. The center of the eyespots appears cellophane-like and is translucent. The central eyespot gives rise to the species name as it is reminiscent of the eye of the cyclops of Greek mythology with the same common name as the moth.

The eye spots also play a role in the family name — Saturnidae, as some eye spots have concentric rings like those of the planet Saturn. And as moths go this creature has a huge wingspan, being as much as five inches from the tip of one forewing to the other. Its caterpillars feed on oak trees.

The richly-colored brown, olive, and orange Cecropia moth, with its bright orange body, is slightly larger than the Polyphemus and its eyespots are more in the shape of a comma. They have a purple patch of the tip of each forewing that reminds me of the ghosts in Pac-Man, the popular video game. Cecropia prefer cherry trees as a food plant.

The most tropical looking member of the family is undoubtedly the lime greencolored Luna Moth, a feeder of walnut leaves. The hindwings of the species, also possessing two eye spots, are longer than other Giant Silk Moth members and have a distinctive twist to the two “tails.” The spots on the fore or front wings are smaller, oval and are connected by a line to the purplish/ maroon-colored line that runs along the front of the forewing. It is a showstopper!

A non-native Giant Silk moth has been introduced to Long Island — the Ailanthus Silk Moth also known as the Cynthia Moth. It can be seen in areas of the island where Ailanthus trees commonly grow such as Brooklyn and Queens.

Two beautiful, closely related silk moths are the Tulip-tree Silk Moth and the Promethea Moth. The latter species is sexually dimorphic, meaning the male and female look different as they are of “different morphs or forms.” The female is a rich blend of browns with an orange body while the male is a deep charcoal grey with olive to tan borders on both wings. As the name suggests, the former species as a caterpillar feeds on the leaves of the Tulip Tree, a spectacular columnar tree that grows in richer soils along Long Island’s north shore.

Related to these other Giant Silk Moths is a smaller inhabitant found in the Long Island Pine Barrens — the Eastern Buck Moth. And unlike other giant silk moths, and moths in general, the buck moth is strictly diurnal, flying from late morning through mid-afternoon on days in late September through mid-October. Why the radical difference in lifestyle compared to typical night flying moths? It has to do with living in a fire-prone environment. Unlike other members of the family, buck moths don’t pupate by forming a cocoon that hangs

from a branch because it would run the real risk of being destroyed by fire. Rather, the buck moth pupates in an earthen cell underground, out of harm’s way, waiting until the threat of the fire season lessens. This means a shift in emergence to the fall, and since it can get cold at night, buck moths have shifted their active period to the warmer daytime.

In the same subfamily as the buck moth is the beautiful Io Moth. This species too is dimorphic with the female being darker than the male’s bright yellow coloration. Both sexes have large eyespots on their hindwings which are revealed when the forewings are thrown forward by a disturbed moth; suddenly the here-to-fore

innocuous insect appears to be the face of a mammal which may deter predation or allow the momentarily confused predator to give enough time for the Io moth to escape.

In yet another subfamily are the remarkable Pine Devil moth, Royal Walnut Moth (which as a caterpillar is the famous hickory horned devil!), Imperial Moth, three species of oak webworms common in the Pine Barrens, and the Rosy Maple Moth, the color of raspberry and lemon sherbet.

Unfortunately, all of these species have become less common on Long Island with some perhaps on the verge of extirpation (local extinction), done in by a loss of habitat and the widespread use of pesticides. Their rarity, paired with exceptional beauty, makes seeing a member of the Giant Silk moth family a special visual treat. Good luck!

A resident of Setauket, John Turner is conservation chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, author of “Exploring the Other Island: A Seasonal Nature Guide to Long Island” and president of Alula Birding & Natural History Tours.

Above, a male Buck Moth

Photo by John Turner

Left, a Polyphemus Moth

Photo by Carl Safina

FOR LONG ISLAND DUCKS’

Super Hero Night and Kids Health and Safety Expo

DATE : Wednesday, June 28

TIME : 5:35 pm – Gates open 6:15 pm – Ceremonial first pitch

PLACE: Long Island Ducks, Fair�eld Properties Ballpark

Annual Family-Friendly Evening with Stony Brook Children’s Hospital

• MARVEL Spider-Man and Iron Man

Meet and Greet appearances

• Free giveaways

• Interactive exhibits and demonstrations

• Stony Brook experts ready to chat with you

• Kids Fun Zone ($5 for a wristband)

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Stony Brook Children’s is Su�olk County’s only children’s hospital.

Stony Brook Stitchers deliver comfort and compassion with a handmade touch

BY MELISSA ARNOLD

Spending any amount of time in a hospital setting is bound to be taxing, not just physically but emotionally. Sometimes, a little reminder that you’re being thought of and supported can make all the difference.

Since 2008, the Stony Brook Stitchers have volunteered their time and skill to knit, crochet and sew gifts for patients that could use a pick-me-up.

In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), families might receive a cute knit cap for their little one. In difficult situations where a baby passes away, a special wrap for the baby can be used to take treasured photos, and parents are given a memory pouch to hold mementos like a lock of hair. Patients in other departments, such as the cancer center or pediatric hospital, might curl up with an afghan, lap blanket or prayer shawl during their stay. Residents at the nearby Long Island State Veterans Home receive donations as well.

The project is a grassroots effort that began with hospital staff who wanted to brighten patients' days.

Stitchers co-director Melissa Shampine grew up attending a small parochial school in Manhattan, where the boys were taught chess and the girls learned to crochet.

“Even though it was mandatory, I found that I actually liked it, and eventually learned to knit as well,” she recalled. “I really enjoyed being creative in that way.”

Shampine now works as a teaching hospital staff assistant at Stony Brook University Hospital. One of her former coworkers, Shakeera Thomas, was also a knitter, and together they began to brainstorm ways they could use their talents to benefit patients.

The idea spread through word of mouth, first among hospital staff, then across the street to the university. Nurse directors and health care providers identified patients who might want a gift. Students and employees from both campuses began donating yarn and got to work. Their numbers grew, and over time, even the surrounding communities got involved.

While the project is united under the Stitchers title, there are no official members or meetings. Some people work together at their churches, libraries or other small group settings, but countless others simply knit at home when they have the time.

In 2015, Jan Tassie responded to an email from Shakeera Thomas, inviting hospital employees to learn to crochet.

“I always wanted to learn to crochet, and someone tried to teach me years ago when I was pregnant with my first son, but it didn’t work out,” said Tassie, who recently retired from the university’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Services.

“When I met Shakeera, she promised that when she was done with me, I’d be able to crochet. And at the end of one day, I could.”

Thomas relocated shortly thereafter, and Tassie stepped into the role as co-director for the Stitchers.

“In the hospital and university settings, you always have people who come and go, so the numbers wax and wane. But Jan is motivated — she is the kind of person who will chat up people in the yarn aisle at craft stores, or through networking, so there are always hands to help. Our website is a labor of love for her, too. She’s done so much,” Shampine said.

The Stitchers come from all walks of life and skill levels. Some have been knitting for decades, while others learned recently with the intent of supporting the project.

Among them is Jack Domaleski, a 24-year-old from New Suffolk who took up knitting during the pandemic quarantine.

“During COVID, I taught myself to knit by watching videos on YouTube because I was bored and looking for something to do. It was easy to learn,” said Domaleski, who works in the restaurant industry. “My mom did it when I was younger, and it’s nice to end up with a finished product that you can share with others. I thought that it would be nice to donate to the hospital in some way, and when I wrote to them, they told me about the Stitchers.”

He was also inspired to knit by his own story. Domaleski was born several months

premature, and spent nearly 90 days at Stony Brook’s NICU before he was strong enough to go home.

Today, he knits baby hats while thinking of other families going through similar circumstances.

“It helps me to feel connected to my own story, and anything you take the time to make is especially meaningful for the people that receive it,” he said.

For information about volunteering or donating yarn or handmade items to the Stony Brook Stitchers, visit www. stonybrookstitchers.com or send an email to Jan Tassie at jantassie.sbu.stitchers@ gmail.com.

Clockwise, from top left, an afghan blanket and surgical caps created by volunteers. Photos courtesy of Jan Tassie/Stony Brook Stitchers; and Jack Domaleski with two knitted baby hats. Photo courtesy of J. Domaleski See more photos online at www.tbrnewsmedia.com

A Column Promoting a More Earth-friendly Lifestyle

BY JOHN L. TURNER

Countless numbers of wild animals, from chipmunks and mice to raccoons and skunks drown in in-ground pools every year unable to climb out of the water along the pool edge. (Two chipmunks unfortunately drowned in my pool last year the first day I uncovered the pool and before I had placed several water exiting devices I had in the shed). Smaller reptiles and amphibians drown too.

There are products you can buy to minimize the chance of wildlife drowning in your pool. They are installed or placed on the edge of the pool and serve as a ramp to allow for animals to climb out. Two products come to mind: 1) Skamper-ramp, for larger animals such as mammals (and your pets!) and 2) Froglogs, effective for smaller animals. Even knotted nylon rope hanging into the water can help smaller mammals escape. Four to six Froglogs or rope are recommended for the average size pool (I placed eight of these to be extra safe).

With these devices in place you can have greater piece of mind knowing your pool is only a place for fun and relaxation!

Prime Tim

Chillin’ with rosé wines

THE WINE CONNOISSEUR

and summer fruit with a full flavor of red currants, watermelon, and candied cherries.

2020 Mixtrack “L’Original” Rosé, Provence, France: (Blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes) Dry and medium-bodied; drinks like a red wine; fruity and pleasantly tart. Stands up to strong cheeses and grilled meats.

BY BOB LIPINSKI

Warm weather means outdoor events, picnics, beaches, and, of course, plenty of chilled beer and wine. Some of the most enjoyable wines to drink during warm weather are rosés, most of which are lightbodied and off-dry, often with a “spritz” of bubbles. Because of the lightness of body and mildness of taste, most rosé wines should be served lightly chilled, not cold.

Rosé wines are usually made by keeping the skins of the red grapes in contact with the juice for a few hours until the desired color is attained. Often, rosé wines are blends of two or more red grapes, which add additional flavor. Recently, I tasted an assortment of rosé wines from around the world that are great for entertaining this summer.

2021 Castello Monaci, “Kreos” Rosé, Negroamaro, Salento, Italy. Floral bouquet with flavors of raspberries, plums, citrus, and cherries. Dry, with hints of tangerine, orange peel, and mint. Pair it with a cold chicken salad containing cilantro.

2021 “Dove Hunt Dog,” Rosé, California: (Blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Gamay grapes) Light-bodied and fragrant with a bouquet of cherries and strawberries. Fruity with citrus and red apple overtones. Great label for dog lovers.

2021 “Scott Wild,” Rosé, California: (Blend of Grenache, Merlot, and Napa Gamay {Valdiguié} grapes) Subtle aromas of citrus

2018 Villa Franciacorta Bokè “Brut Rosé,” Italy: (100% Pinot Noir) Peachcolored; elegant and refined with a light bouquet of raspberries, citrus, and cranberry. Pair it with a dish of prosciutto and melon or burrata drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil.

NV Mirabella Franciacorta “Brut Rosé,” Italy: (Blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc grapes) Very lively in the mouth, with a fruity bouquet with a taste of wild berries, brioche, and red currants. Serve it with smoked salmon, sliced thin.

NV Weingut Wutzl “Frizzante” Brut Rosé, Gobelsburg, Kamptal, Austria: (100% Zweigelt grapes) Salmon-colored with a delightful bouquet of pink roses and peaches. Dry, light, and delicious, with hints of berries and citrus. Perfect for a bowl of chilled watermelon cubes.

2020 Lichtenberger-González, “Muschelkalk Rosé,” Burgenland, Austria: (Blend of Blaufränkisch, Pinot Noir, and Zweigelt grapes) Bright persimmon-colored with a light floral bouquet. Dry, with a flavor of citrus, cherry, cranberry, and yellow plums.

Bob Lipinski is the author of 10 books, including “101: Everything You Need To Know About Whiskey” and “Italian Wine & Cheese Made Simple” (available on Amazon.com). He consults and conducts training seminars on Wine, Spirits, and Food and is available for speaking engagements. He can be reached at www.boblipinski.com OR bkjm@hotmail.com.

Pixabay photo

A Froglog provides an easy escape for smaller animals.

Bake him a strawberry pie for Father's Day

BY HEIDI SUTTON

Strawberry season marks the beginning of so many wonderful things on Long Island — longer days, warmer weather, the promise of summer ... and Father's Day. Bright red throughout and still warm from the sun, freshly picked strawberries are flavorful and sweet. If some strawberries make it home after picking them out east, try making of these delicious pies for that special man in your life.

Fresh Strawberry Pie

Recipe adapted from Pillsbury

YIELD: Makes one pie

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pie crust

• 6 cups whole fresh strawberries

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1/4 cup water

• sliced strawberries

• 1 cup sweetened whipped cream

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 350 F. Press pie crust into 9-inch glass pie pan. Bake 9-11 minutes, or until lightly browned. Completely cool pie crust, approximately 30 minutes. In blender, crush strawberries to make 1 cup.

In saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Add crushed strawberries and water. Bring to boil, stirring constantly. Cool to room temperature. Arrange sliced strawberries in cooled crust. Pour cooked strawberry mixture evenly over strawberries. Refrigerate for 3 hours. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

YIELD: Makes one pie

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pie crust, parbaked and cooled

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 8 ounces whipped cream cheese

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/3 cup water

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved or quartered if large

• 2 tablespoons sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Filling: In a mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the heavy cream for about 5 minutes until fluffy and soft peaks form. Add the cream cheese and powdered sugar and continue to beat until smooth and combined.

Strawberries: Whisk together the water and cornstarch. Heat a skillet to medium heat. When the skillet is hot, add the berries, sugar, and cornstarch mixture. Stir until the mixture bubbles and thickens, then turn the heat off. Let the berries cool slightly.

Scoop the cream cheese filling into the prepared pie crust. Use a spoon or spatula to scrape some of the filling up the sides of the crust, essentially lining the crust with the cream cheese mixture. Fill the crust/ cream cheese mixture with the still-warm strawberries, mounding them up in the center of the pie.

Chill the strawberry cream cheese pie for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or more. To serve, slice the pie straight from the fridge and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Fresh Strawberry Pie

Photo from Family Features

HOROSCOPES OF THE WEEK

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You will recover quickly from disagreements with others, Gemini. These situations may give you a new perspective and compel you to change a few things for the better.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Confide in a friend about something that is troubling you, Cancer. Talking about the issue could start you down a path toward a solution. Thank others for lending an ear.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, on the outside everything may seem to be going along fine with a friend. But things may be different on the inside. Treat others tenderly to avoid piling on.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Vacation vibes are high this week, Virgo. You are daydreaming about potential destinations. Narrow down your prospects and zero in on your favorite features.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You may want to know what another person is thinking but don’t want to come off too pushy, Libra. If you phrase the question the right way, it won’t seem like an interrogation.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Your physical and emotional health may be a focal point this week, Scorpio. Book some time for reflection, rest and relaxation. Solitude can help you clear your mind.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, you are staying on top of your responsibilities and have good energy moving through this week. However, by the time the weekend arrives you may be running on empty.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Try having some fun outside of your comfort zone, Capricorn. It is good to try new things from time to time and push the boundaries you have set up for yourself.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, this week you may find yourself meeting new people and fitting into groups you had not imagined. Network as much as possible while having fun along the way.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, finances may have been on your mind and you are eager to pay off some debt. It could take a while, but you will be successful.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, sometimes you do not have to take action to fix problems. Certain issues will work themselves out on their own. Don’t feel the need to rush in and find a quick solution.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Right now the spotlight is on you and your talents, Taurus. You have a large group of admirers who are looking to see what you can produce next.

Famous Birthdays:

June 15 - Neil Patrick Harris (50); June 16 - John Cho (51); June 17 - Barry Manilow (80); June 18 - Isabella Rosssellini (71);

June 19 - Paula Abdul (61); June 20 - Nicole Kidman (56); June 21 - Chris Pratt (44); June 22 - Meryl Streep (74 )

WMHO connects students over the Sound for third year

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) hosted its third Long Island Sound Connections Summit last week. This virtual, hands-on collaborative learning program connects students across Long Island Sound and allows them to conduct their own research to better understand the water systems in their environment.

Long Island Sound Connections is the first program to connect both shores with students from New York and Connecticut — with virtual class check-ins, “summits” where students present their findings, an ongoing collection of data, and an analysis on that information. The Long Island Sound Connections program was designed to help students learn about the Long Island Sound and to inspire them to become ‘citizen scientists’ and protect their environment. The program is offered via distance learning from the WMHO’s Erwin J. Ernst Marine Conservation Center (EMCC), where students have front row seats to one of the most pristine natural resources in New York State.

WMHO collaborated with Stony Brook University’s Ecology and Evolution Distinguished Professor Jeffrey Levinton, and Dr. Taylor Evans of Stony Brook University’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences to develop a system of data collection parameters for monitoring and analyzing West Meadow Creek’s water quality and species counts.

Professor Levinton and Dr. Evans will continue to support WMHO in developing this multipronged project that seeks to educate the public by providing data representing the creek’s health over time to the public and researchers. They will also assist participating classes to in continuing

to learn about the Long Island Sound environment on an ongoing basis.

The third “summit” of classes in this program was between Ms. Michelle Miller and Ms. Doreen Barry’s 6th grade Science class from Selden Middle School and Ms. Jess Castoro’s 6th grade Science class from Achievement First Bridgeport Academy Middle School, who worked in collaboration with Mill River Wetland Committee.

The 2023 “summit” participants have been researching the Sound for six months, and with assistance from professionals in the field, have learned the environmental impact of industrialization, recent achievements on mitigating the effects, and how to utilize their data in the future by monitoring the Sound.

Each class created specialized newscasts to showcase their findings on the relationships between water quality, animal and plant species, and even with human impact. In

this cross sectional study of the Sound, students compared and contrasted their two environments (suburban and urban) and presented it to their partner class.

In addition, the study is longitudinal and seeks to track changes over time. Data will be added into the WMHOs software to create a data map and timeline to assist environmental researchers of all ages to understand and appreciate similarities and differences across the Long Island Sound. With grants provided by the Fullwood Foundation, the Frey Family Foundation and Webster Bank, this program was offered to participating classes free of charge. All costs associated with the program were sponsored by these organizations. For more information about the WMHO, on the Long Island Sound Connection program, other historic, environmental and scientific programs that the WMHO offers, please call 631-751-2244 or visit wmho.org.

ONLY ON THE WEB:

Check out the following articles at tbrnewsmedia.com

» Long Island Game Farm celebrates World Giraffe Day June 19

» Music to our ears! Summer concerts return to Stony Brook Village

» Smithtown Senior Citizens Department provides low cost medical alert monitoring services for residents

» Long Island FunFest heads to SCCC in Brentwood from June 15 to 25

» SBU News: Biochemist Benjamin Martin receives MIRA Award

» Shelter Pet of the Week - Sweet Tea at the Smithtown Animal Shelter

From left, Dr. Richard Rugen, Chairman, WMHO; Gloria Rocchio, President, WMHO; Chris Richey, Trustee, WMHO; Dr. Taylor Evans, Stony Brook University School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences; Kathleen Mich, Trustee, WMHO; Deborah Boudreau, Education Director, WMHO; Charles Napoli, Trustee, WMHO. In attendance virtually: Jamie Parker, The Fullwood Foundation; Nicole Sarno, Business Manager Director, Business Banking, Webster Bank; Jon Dilley, President, Mill River Wetland Committee. Not pictured: The Frey Family Foundation. Photo from WMHO

Bobo

Photo from Long Island Game Farm

Stony Brook author unveils latest teen novel

REVIEWED BY JEFFREY SANZEL

Sarah Beth Durst’s over two dozen books include writings for children, teenagers, and adults, many in the fantasy genre. Among the prolific author’s works are The Bone Maker, The Deepest Blue, The Stone Girl’s Story, and Even and Odd (all reviewed in this paper). With The Lake House (HarperTeen), Durst has crafted a first-rate young adult thriller. The novel follows three teenagers sent to an “enrichment retreat” in Maine, a place to “learn new skills, have new experiences, make new friends.” Claire Dreyer is the center: “Claire excelled at three things: ballet, homework, and identifying all the ways there were to die in any given situation.” Claire’s self-awareness is both insightful and crippling. “[She] thought longingly of her bedroom with all her books and a door that closed everyone out.” Ultimately, she hopes the opportunity to be “a new Claire here, a never-beforeseen version of herself who made friends easily and didn’t freak out about every little thing.”

Two contemporaries join Claire. The pessimistic Reyva Chaudhari doesn’t “do performative emotions.” But, after some prodding, she discloses her passion: Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighting—an endeavor that turns out to be of great value. Reyva’s wry humor and tendency to find amusement in the darker possibilities contrasts with Claire’s need for constant order. Mariana Ortiz-Rodriguez, a Californian transplant, is the perkiest of the three. Fascinated by cars and engines, her skills become vital in the climax.

All three share complex backgrounds with various parental pressures and complicated home lives. Their parents make choices they perceive as good for their offspring but often fail consideration of their children’s emotional needs. As they venture forward, the girls reveal secrets, voicing fears they have never previously shared. Their vulnerability strengthens their bond, allowing for a genuine evolution of well-placed trust.

Insightfully—and with no malice— Mariana evaluates Reyva: “My guess: your parents have opinions on what you’re allowed to feel, as well as what you do, and so you respond by controlling what you show the world. Do you want us to think nothing phases you? Fact is, you care a lot, and you’re terrified that someone will realize it and use it against you. Like, you know, I’m doing right now.”

The girls arrive at the end of June, planning to remain through the end of August. A young man, Jack, takes them to the island on his boat, leaving them on the shore. They hike the short distance up a trail to discover the Lake House burned, with the charred remains still smoking. With no cell service or communication with the outside world, the trio contemplates their short- and long-term fates. They discover

a dead body in the surrounding woods: a woman dead from a gunshot from an unknown assailant.

Secluded in a national forest, miles from civilization, they face natural trials: dehydration, starvation, insects, and weather. Additionally, they must accept that they are not alone and are targets of one or even two dangerous island inhabitants.

Eventually, Durst introduces a fascinating supernatural element. The malevolence merges a camp ghost legend and the concept of “the sins of the father.” Their struggle combines “the strain of the lack of food, and the constant supply of fear.”

Durst quickly ratchets up the tension, plunging into a face-paced narrative fraught with challenges and revelations. Fortunately, she writes about people, not tropes. As in all her work, the characters have dimension and texture—recognizable but individual.

While The Lake House is a thriller, it portrays perseverance and rising to extraordinary circumstances. The story lives not in the isolation of Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet or the savagery of William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies. It avoids the world of Mean Girls and Robinson Crusoe . Instead, the book celebrates the ability to thrive on mutual reliance. The mantra is “stick together, and we’ll survive,” and Claire, Reyva, and Mariana grow because they see themselves through the eyes of others—companions who value their potential.

The Lake House offers three strong young women facing a range of demons, both personal and real, in a location that is both doom and destiny. Finally, they learn, “I am enough exactly as I am.” Durst, a gifted storyteller, neatly balances thrills and introspection in this entertaining and engaging story.

Sarah Beth Durst is the award-winning author of over twenty books for kids, teens, and adults. She lives in Stony Brook with her husband, her children, and her illmannered cat. Pick up a copy of The Lake House online at www.amazon.com or www. barnesandnoble.com. For more information, visit www.sarahbethdurst.com.

Author Sarah Beth Durst

Thursday 15

St. Philip St. James Family Festival

Saints Philip & James Roman Catholic Church, 1 Carow Place, St. James will host their 2023 Family Festival today from 6 to 10 p.m., June 16 and 17 from 6 to 10:30 p.m. and June 18 from 5 to 9 p.m. This family friendly annual festival features exciting carnival rides for all ages by Newton Shows, delicious festival eats and carnival treats, games and prizes, and fun for the entire family. Free admission, pay-one-price rides or individual rides. 631-584-5454

Friday 16

St. Philip St. James Family Festival

See June 15 listing.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series with an informative talk by fashion designer Celine Chen from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Chen will educate guests on her life, her experience working in the fashion industry, her experience running a business and some interesting similarities and differences between the fashion industry in China and America. Light refreshments and snacks will be served. Free, no reservations required. 631-751-7707

Pride Concert

The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates its 15th anniversary season with a free concert at Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach at 7 p.m. Titled “Why We Sing,” the performance is a wide-spanning musical celebration of the LGBTQ+ community featuring some of the members’ favorites selections from the last 15 years of concerts. 631-585-9393

Saturday 17

St. Philip St. James Family Festival

See June 15 listing.

International Day of Yoga

The Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station hosts a free United Nations 10th International Day of Yoga from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participate in yoga, meditations, ayurveda, pranayama, reiki, sound healing, and so much more. Bring your family and friends, meet the speakers — enjoy an offering of vegetarian fare if you wish for $35. RSVP at www.learnwithmasters.com.

All Souls Treasure Sale/Bake***

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook will hold a Treasure/Bake Sale on the lawn of the church starting at 9 a.m. There will treasures, home-baked goods, hot dogs and refreshments as well. Proceeds to benefit All Souls’ Handicap Accessibility Project. Call 631-241-2775 for more details.

Father’s Day on the Farm

dates

Times ... and

June 15 to June 22, 2023

Join Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket for a Father’s Day Special Weekend today and June 18 from noon to 4 p.m. before the farm closes for the season. Featuring antique trucks and tractors on display, farm implements, home-made ice cream making, the Big Swing, and visits with the farm’s baby animals. The Little Store will also be open offering eggs, maple syrup, T-shirts and more. Admission is $12 adults, $10 children, free for all fathers. 631-689-8172

Northport Pridefest

The Village of Northport will host a Pridefest in the Park at Northport Village Park from 1 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a “pre-tea” afternoon music festival, with a brief program, and vendors located harborside at the foot of Main Street. Some locations will host “tea” starting at 4 p.m., and the Northport Historical Society Museum will present a PRIDE pop-up exhibit. www. northportpridefest.com

Juneteenth Celebration

Town of Huntington will celebrate Juneteenth with a day filled with dancing, food, music, Double Dutch tournament, history, drummers circles and more at Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington from 1 to 7 p.m. The event will include an art activity with Art League of Long Island from 1 to 3 p.m. and free admission to the Heckscher Museum of Art. Bring seating. Free. www.heckscher.org

Strawberry Festival/Tag Sale

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 716 Route 25A, Rocky Point present their annual Strawberry Festival and Church Tag Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with delicious food and desserts, bake sale, HUGE Tag Sale, gift basket raffles, crafts, local vendors, bounce house and children’s activities. 631-744-9355

Wet Paint Festival

Join Gallery North for its 19th annual Wet Paint Festival, an outdoor event that provides the community with the unique opportunity to watch Long Island’s plein air painters as they capture the area’s historic and natural beauty, at Old Field Farm, 92 West Meadow Road Setauket today and June 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with live music, nature tours, kids activities and more. Rain dates are June 24 and 25. Free. 631-751-2676, www.gallernorth.org

Kings Park Day

Come on down! The Kings Park Chamber of Commerce presents the 45th annual Kings Park Day at the Library Municipal Parking Lot, 1 Main St., Kings Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy a craft fair with over 100 vendors, international food court, live music, kids activities, and more. Perfect Father’s Day gift shopping. Free admission. 631-846-1459.

Spring Craft and Flea Market

Harborfields Public LIbrary, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn will host a Spring Craft and Flea Market on its circular driveway from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The outdoor fair will feature craft vendors, local businesses, and flea market items from individual sellers. Held rain or shine. 631-757-4200

Farmers & Artisans Marketplace

Farmingville Residents Association hosts a Farmers, Artisans and Friends Marketplace at Triangle Park, corner of Horseblock Road and Woodycrest Drive, Farmingville from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring over 45 vendors selling local produce, handmade and homemade items and flea market treasures with live music by Visco & McNeill. 631260-7411.

Freedom Day Celebration

The Town of Brookhaven will hold its 9th annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration at the historic Longwood Estate, 205 Longwood Road in Ridge from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in recognition of the 157th anniversary of the end of slavery in 1865. Included is a BBQ picnic, games, music, dancing and activities for the entire family. For TOB residents only. Visit www. BrookhavenNY.gov/Juneteenth or call 4512627 to RSVP.

Sunday 18

St. Philip St. James Family Festival

See June 15 listing.

Wet Paint Festival

See June 17 listing.

Father’s Day on the Farm

See June 17 listing.

Father’s Day at the LIM

In honor of Father’s Day, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook offers free admission to fathers and grandfathers from noon to 5 p.m. Spend some quality time together exploring the museum’s latest exhibits: Picturing America’s Pastime and Home Fields: Baseball Stadiums of LI and NYC and visiting the state of the art Carriage Museum. 631-751-0066

Juneteenth Walking Tour

The Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport celebrates Juneteenth with a Black History Walking Tour at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Researcher Ceylan Swenson will offer attendees a new perspective on familiar locations and tells the stories of the generations of Black families who lived in and around Northport. Tickets are $10 per person. To register, call 631-757-9859 or visit www.northporthistorical.org.

BRINGING SAM COOKE TO LIFE

Darrian Ford will perform the Cooke Book at The John W. Engeman Theater on June 20.

Monday 19

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. Rev. Lisa Williams and Ann Pellegrino will present Planting Seeds of Hope: The Bethel Hobbs Community Farm Story. Come learn about the farm’s rich history, its growth and development, present service and operation and future vision. Suggested donation, free for members. Also available via Zoom. Register at www.tvhs.org. 631-751-3730

Tuesday 20

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a talk by Rabbi Aaron Benson about the “Destruction of the Temple” and its ramifications in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Tribute to Sam Cooke

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Cooke Book, a celebration of Sam Cooke’s career that blazed a trail for Aretha Franklin, Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, Rod Stewart, Smokey Robinson, and many other giants of soul music performed by Darrian Ford in concert at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45. 631-2612900, www.engemantheater.com

Wednesday 21

No events listed for this day.

Thursday 22

Summer Thursday at the LIM

Kick off your summer with a free outdoor concert featuring Ray Lambiase on the grounds of the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Pack a picnic supper, enjoy the concert and view the latest exhibits at the History Museum. In the case of rain, concert will be held in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room. Free admission. 631-751-0066

Summer Swap Concert

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents a free “Summer Stage With a Purpose” (Summer SWAP) concert featuring the Equity Brass Band on the front lawn of the museum from 6 to 8 p.m. Grab a lawn chair and come on down! Sponsored by Stony Brook University and Stony Brook Medicine. The concert series continues with Nikos Chatzitsakos Tiny Big Band on July 13, and the Melanie Marod Ensemble on Aug. 10. 631-751-1895, www.thejazzloft.org

Theater

‘The Sound of Music’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is The Sound of Music from May 18 to July 2. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” and “Sixteen Going on Seventeen.” Tickets range from $80 to $85. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Something Rotten!’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage productions with Something Rotten! from May 20 to June 24. Living in the shadow of Renaissance rock star The Bard, two brothers set out to write the world’s first musical in this hilarious mash-up of sixteenth-century Shakespeare and twenty-first-century Broadway. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being to thine own self be true.Contains adult humor and situations. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and up. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’

The Carriage House Players continue their 34th annual Summer Shakespeare Festival in the mansion courtyard of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with The

Two Gentlemen of Verona from June 4 to 30. Young Valentine travels to Milan to find his fortune, but instead falls for the fair Silvia, daughter of the Duke. His world is turned upside down when his best friend, Proteus, abandons his love, Julia, in Verona to woo Silvia for himself. With a pair of bumbling servants and a dog, it’s a lively Shakespearean comedy about the complexities of love, lust, and friendship. Tickets are $20, $15 children under 12. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Princess Ida’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St. Smithtown hosts a performance of Princess Ida, the classic comic opera by Gilbert & Sullivan, on June 17 at 8 p.m. Presented in an all-new production by the Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island, the opera follows Princess Ida who has fled an arranged marriage to the son of King Hildebrand and instead sets up a college for women, where she teaches the then-unthinkable principles of women’s rights and equality for all, regardless of rank, gender, wealth or nationality. Featuring a 23-piece orchestra. Tickets are $30, seniors and students $25. To order, visit www. gaslocoli.org. 516-619-7415

Class Reunions

•Hauppauge High School Class of 1978 will hold its 45th reunion on July 22, 2023 with a reunion party on July 21 and a reunion picnic on July 23. For details, email HHS197845th@gmail.com.

•Ward Melville High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket on Sept. 9, 2023 from 6 to 11 p.m. For ticket information, contact Tibo Dioguardi at allegra@styledandsold.com.

•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at Mikarlwhe@comcast.net.

Vendors Wanted

■ Vendors are wanted for the 2nd annual Port Paws Dog Festival at Joe Erland Park in Port Jefferson on July 15 and 16 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fee is $350 for 10X10 booth for both days. Visit portpawsdogfest.com/ vendors or text 516-939-8960.

■ Spirit of Huntington, 2 Melville Road, Huntington seeks artists, musicians, and vendors fort its Spirit of Summer Art Festival on Aug. 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. $125 fee for 8’ by 10’ area. Rain date Aug. 13. Deadline to apply is July 28. Visit www. spiritofhuntington.com.

■ The Village of Lake Grove seeks arts & crafts, food and community vendors for its 2023 Lake Grove Summer Festival at Memorial Park, 980 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove on Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit lakegroveny.gov for an application.

■ Vendor applications are now available for Sunshine Prevention Center’s Family Fall Festival at 468 Boyle Road, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain date Oct 15). Fee is $50 for a 10 x 10 space, no charge for Agency Resource tables. Bring your own tables, tents, chairs. All vendors must also donate a prize ($20 value) for a raffle. Register at www.sunshinepreventionctr.org or email drcarter.sunshinecenter@gmail.com.

■ Craft and new merchandise vendors are wanted for the St. Thomas of Canterbury Church Fall Car Show and Craft Fair, 90 Edgewood Ave., Smithtown, on Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $50 per booth (10’ by 10’ space). For more information, call 631-265-4520 or visit www. Stthomasofcanterbury.net.

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 leisure@ tbrnewspapers.com. 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.

HUZZAH!

From left, Jordan Breslow, Joseph Anthony Smith and Richard Risi in a scene from Gilbert & Sullivan’s Princess Ida. The show heads to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center on June 17.

Photo by NanMagna

R eligious D irectory

Catholic

INFANTJESUS

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

110MyrtleAve.,PortJefferson631-473-0165 Fax631-331-8094 www.www.infantjesus.org

REVERENDGREGORYRANNAZZISI,

REV.FRANCISLASRADO& PASTOR,ASSOCIATES:

REV.ROLANDOTICLLASUCA

ParishOutreach:631-331-6145

WeeklyMasses: 7:30am(Monday-Friday)and

WeekendMasses: Saturdayat4:30pm,Sunday 9amintheChurch

intheChurch at7:30am,8:45am(Spanish),10:30am,and5pm 9:00amand12:00pmintheChapel..

SpanishMasses: Sundayat8:45am

intheChurch

TheSacramentofReconciliation remains

scheduledonSaturdays12:30-1:15pminthe

lowerchurch.

ST.GERARDMAJELLA

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

300TerryvilleRoad,PortJeffersonStation 631-473-2900www.stgmajella.org

REV.GREGORYRANNAZZISI,PASTOR

Mass: Saturday5pm

Sunday8am,10am&12pm

WeekdayMass: 9am

Confessions: Saturday3:45pm-4:45pm

OfficeHours: Monday-Thursday9am-4:30pm

ThriftShop: Monday-Thursday10am-4pm

BaptismandWedding arrangementscanbe andFriday10am-2pm.

madebycallingtheParishOffice.

ST.JAMESROMAN CATHOLICCHURCH

429Rt.25A,Setauket Phone:631-941-4141Fax:631-751-6607

ParishOfficeemail:

parish@stjamessetauket.org

REV.MIKES.EZEATU, ASSOCIATEPASTOR REV.ROBERTSCHECKENBACK, REV.ROBERTKUZNIK,PASTOR www.stjamessetauket.org

SBUHOSPITALCHAPLAIN,INRESIDENCE

OfficeHours:Monday-Friday9amto4pm...

Saturday9am

Bereavement: 631-941-4141X341

FaithFormationOffice:631-941-4141X328

Outreach: 631-941-4141X313

OurDailyBreadSundaySoupKitchen

FoodPantryOpen OpenEveryWednesday To-Goandgroceries opened2-3pm,servinghotmeals

OpenEverySundayfrom2-3pm, from12Noonto2pm

MissionStatement:We,theCatholiccommunityoftheThreeVillagearea,formedasthe

BodyofChristthroughthewatersofBaptism,

Jesusinvitation:tobefaithfulandfruitfuldisciples;tobeaGoodSamaritantoourneighborand

Charity...sothatinJesusname,wemaybea andtobelivingwitnessofFaith,Hopeand enemy;tobestewardsofandforGod’screation

welcomingcommunity,respectfuloflifeinall

itsdiversities.

ST.LOUISDEMONTFORT

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

75NewYorkAvenue,SoundBeach Parishoffice:631-744-8566; fax631-744-8611

Parishwebsite:

REV.FRANCISPIZZARELLI,S.M.M., HANSON,INRESIDENCE ASSOCIATEPASTORREV.MSGR.DONALD PASTORREV.ALPHONSUSIGBOKWE, REV.MSGR.CHRISTOPHERJ.HELLER, www.stlouisdm.org

PARISHASSISTANTREV.HENRYVAS

OfficeHours: Mon.,Tues.,Thurs.:

ClosedonSunday pm; Saturday: 9amto1pm; Wednesday: 9amto8pm; Friday: 9amto4 9amto5pm

MissionStatement:Toproclaimthegoodnews

ofJesusChrist’slovethroughouractiveinvolvementasaparishfamilyinworksof

Charity,Faith,Worship,JusticeandMercy.ALL

AREWELCOME!Nomatterwhatyourpresent

familysituation.Nomatteryourpracticeoffaith. statusisintheCatholicChurch.Nomatteryour

Nomatteryourpersonalhistory,ageorbackground.YOUareinvited,respectedandlovedat

WeekdayMasses: St.LouisdeMontfort.

MondaythroughFriday8:30amintheChapel

WeekendMasses:SaturdayVigil:5pm

Sunday:7:30am;10:00am;12noon.

Baptisms:MostSundaysat1:30pm.

Reconciliation:Saturday4-4:45pm PleasecontactParishOfficeforanappointment.

AnointingoftheSick:byrequest. orbyappointment.

HolyMatrimony: ContactParishOfficeatleast

ReligiousEducation:Contact631-744-9515 sixmonthsinadvanceofdesireddate.

ParishOutreach:Contact631-209-0325

Catholic Traditional Latin Mass

ST.MICHAELTHEARCHANGEL SOCIETYOFSAINTPIUSX

900HorseblockRoad,Farmingville 631-736-6515sspxlongisland.com

SundayMasses at7amand9am

Pleaseconsultsspxlongisland.comforupdates

andcurrentmasstimes.

Christian

ISLANDCHRISTIANCHURCH

400ElwoodRoad,EastNorthport IslandChristian.com 631-822-3000

PASTORCHRISTOPHERCOATS

FoodPantry: EverythirdWednesdayofthe

month10:30AM-12PM

formedbytheGospel.Westrivetorespondto HolySpirit,nourishedbytheEucharistand fullnessoftheKingdomofGod,guidedbythe areapilgrimcommunityjourneyingtowardthe people.

Congregational

MT.SINAICONGREGATIONAL UNITEDCHURCHOFCHRIST

233NorthCountryRoad,Mt.Sinai 631-473-1582 www.msucc.org

Weareacongregationcommittedtojustice. All

madeintheimageofGod openandaffirmingofallpeople,asweareeach genderidentification.Weareachurchthatis maritalstatus,gender,sexualorientation,or regardlessofage,race,abilities,economicor arewelcome intoourfulllifeandministry

LivestreamingonYouTube: SundayWorshipat10am

@MtSinaiCongregationalChurchUCC

SundaySchoolat10am

“Nomatterwhoyouareorwhereyouare

TheIslandHeartFoodPantry toloveoneanother westrivetoliveoutChrist’smessage Throughourworshipandbyouractions onlife’sjourney,youarewelcomehere.”

643MiddleCountryRoad,MiddleIslandNY

WednesdaysandThursdays2:15PM-4:15PM

233N.CountryRd,MtSinai MSCCFoodCupboard

EveryotherTuesday9:15-11:45

Episcopal

ALLSOULSEPISCOPALCHURCH

Onthehillacrossfrom theStonyBrookDuckPond 61MainStreet,StonyBrook

FATHERTOMREESEVICAR

Visitourwebsitewww.allsoulsstonybrook.org

orcall631-655-7798

Sunday:8:00am VirtualMorningPrayer

9:30HolyEucharistwithOrganMusic

Tuesday:8:00am

InterdenominationalMorningPrayer

Wednesday:12noon

InterdenominationalRosary

Weareafriendlywelcomingcommunityforall

CAROLINEEPISCOPALCHURCH OFSETAUKET

1DykeRoadontheVillageGreen,Setauket Website:www.carolinechurch.net email:office@carolinechurch.net

631-941-4245

Joinusincelebrating300yearsofcommunity, REVNICKOLASC.GRIFFITH

fellowship&ministry!

10:00amThursdays HealingService Services

5:00pmSaturdays HolyEucharist

8:00amSundays HolyEucharist

9:30amSundays HolyEucharistw/Choir

FoodPantry

OpenWednesdays11:00am-12:00pminthe

MarcoC.SmithBuilding.

Entranceislocatedatthebackofthebuilding.

Allarewelcome!

CHRISTEPISCOPALCHURCH

127BarnumAve.,PortJefferson 631-473-0273

email:ccoffice@christchurchportjeff.org www.christchurchportjeff.org

Pleasejoinusforour8:00and10:00Sunday Churchofficehours:Tues.-Fri.9am-12pm

Eucharist´sandour10:00WednesdayEucharist´sinourChapel.Masksareoptional.

GODBLESSYOU

FatherAnthonyDiLorenzo

yourjourneyoflifewewanttobepartofit. welcomingcommunity.Whereveryouarein andministry.WeatChristchurchareajoyful, tomakehisloveknowntoallthroughourlives togrowinourrelationshipwithJesusChristand ItisthemissionthepeopleofChristChurch

ST.JOHN’SEPISCOPALCHURCH

“ToknowChristandtomakeHimknown” Rev.DuncanA.Burns,Rector Rev.JamesE.Reiss,Curate Rev.ClaireD.Mis,Deacon

AlexPryrodny,MusicDirector

&Artist-in-Residence

12ProspectSt,Huntington(631)427-1752

OnMainSt.nexttothelibrary

SundayWorship

8:00am-RiteIHolyEucharist

10:00am-RiteIIHolyChoralEucharist

9:40am-SundaySchool

ThriftShop

12to3pm-Tuesdays,Thursdays&Saturdays

VolunteersWelcome!

Followuson info@stjohns1745.org*www.stjohns1745.org

Facebook&Instagram@stjohns1745

PLEASE CALL OR VISIT YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP’S WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE.

I Music Lessons

Let your heart sing!

Let your heart sing

Music

Let your heart sing

PROGRAMS

Sensational Seahorses

Calling kids who like science and art! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a drop-in program, Sensational Seahorses, on June 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. Come discover the amazing abilities of these ocean creatures and create a colorful oceanscape diorama. to take home. Admission fee + $10. 631-367-3418.

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo!

Last chance to catch a performance of Cinderella at Theatre Three. The show closes on Saturday.

Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

Dr. Melanie Birnbaum

NYSSMA Preparation.

Voice & Piano LESSONS

Giant Game and Big Voice Day

NYSSMA Preparation All Ages, Levels, and Styles. E Experience with seniors and special needs students

Lessons available at my Smithtown studio, in your home or online.

Dr. Melanie Birnbaum

631.522.2921

Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for Giant Game and Big Voice Day, an afternoon of fun and games on the library's lawn, on June 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. Try your hand at games such as giant versions of Connect 4, Scrabble, and Checkers, move and balance with Twister, sing your heart out with karaoke or spin the prize wheel! Open to all. No registration required. 631-941-4080

Father’s Day Drop-In Program

Stop by the table in front of the Sunken Meadow Nature Center, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park anytime between noon and 2 p.m. on June 18 for some fun Father's Day activities and crafts! No reservations are required. 631-269-4333

Marsh Mania

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program, Marsh Mania on June 22 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This program will connect children ages 3 to 5 and their parents with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. To register, visit Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure.

Shark Invasion!

Celebrate sharks this summer at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor, Thursdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Uncover amazing facts about these incredible predators as you hunt for clues in this sharkthemed scavenger hunt. Then roll up your sleeves and excavate a genuine shark tooth fossil to take home! Admission fee + $10 participant. 631-367-3418

film

'The Lion King' Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Disney's The Lion King (1994) on June 18 at noon. The

animated feature follows the adventures of the young lion Simba and his quest to take back his homeland from Scar with the help of his friends Timon and Pumbaa. Rated G. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

'Cinderella'

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson closes its children's theatre season with an original retelling of the poor waif Cinderella from May 27 to June 17. The classic love story finds its power in a pumpkin, a palace, a prince and a young girl whose belief in herself can overcome any obstacle. When her Fairy Godmother adds a dash of excitement, the magical possibilities are endless. Don't miss this musical enchantment for the entire family. All seats are $10. To order, call 631928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

'Flat Stanley'

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley from May 28 to July 2. Stanley Lambchop is an ordinary ten-yearold who longs to travel the world and do something amazing! Careful what you wish for, Stanley! One morning, Stanley wakes up really, REALLY flat! In a whirlwind musical travelogue, Stanley scours the globe for a solution to his unusual problem. He’s stamped, posted and mailed from Hollywood to Paris to Honolulu and beyond hoping to once again become three-dimensional. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

'Seussical Jr.'

Smithtown Performing Arts Center presents an outdoor production of Seussical Jr. on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown from July 8 to Aug. 17. Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in this fantastical musical extravaganza. Tickets are $18 per person. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Send your calendar events to leisure@tbrnewspapers.com

Kids show off their fishing skills in catch-and-release event

BY CAROLE PAQUETTE

Forty-six junior anglers caught a total of 182 fish at the Friends of Caleb Smith Preserve’s 19th annual catch-and-release Junior Fishing Tournament held on Saturday, June 10, at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve in Smithtown.

It was a clear day and the Park’s Willow Pond was active with geese, cormorants, turtles and a loud rapping woodpecker as the 46 jubilant young anglers pulled in all types of fish, examined, then released, them. A large colorful Rainbow Trout brought shouts of surprise and a winning trophy for its angler Hunter O’Brien, who had won a prize last year for catching the most fish.

Kevy Doring, 6, of Northport who was one of the morning anglers, was with his grandfather John Mikkelson. Within five minutes of the start of the tournament Kevy had caught two Panfish, one 7-1/4 inches, the other 8 inches. He eventually caught a third.

Co-chairperson Carol Tokosh said “The Junior Angler Tournament is a wonderful event to teach children how to fish and enjoy nature. It's such a pleasure to see the smiles and reactions of a child when they catch a fish.”

Winners of the three trophies in the morning session, for those ages five to eight, were Christian McFarland, 6, of St. James, who caught 13 fish to win for Most Fish Caught; Dominick Ferrentino, 7, of St. James who won for Largest Pan Fish Caught, for his 8-3/4 inch Pan Fish; and Easton Hodge, 5, of Smithtown, won for the Largest Other Fish Caught, a 10-1/2” Trout.

Winners in the afternoon session, for those ages nine through twelve, were Arabella Siegel, 11, of Smithtown, who caught 17 fish, and won for Most Fish Caught; Ryan Liebold, 12, of Smithtown, won the award for the Largest Pan Fish Caught for his 9-3/4-inch Pan Fish; and Hunter O’Brien, 9, of Port Washington, won for the Largest Other Fish Caught, a 12-1/2 inch Rainbow Trout.

Several lotteries were held during the afternoon. Evelyn Folandro, 6, of Commack won a fishing rod and tackle box donated by the D’Agostino Family in memory of Mike D’Agostino who was one of the co-founders of the Friends of Caleb Smith Preserve, and a main contributor to the Junior Angler Fishing Tournament.

Carter LeHanka, 12, of Commack won the Fourth Annual Tom Troccodli

Memorial Lottery and received a fishing rod and tackle donated by the Troccoli family. The drawing was held in honor of the late Tom Troccoli of Smithtown who enjoyed fishing and accompanied his grandson at junior angler tournaments. Raffle donors included Camp-Site Sports Shop in Huntington Station, which donated two fishing rods, one for each session, and books about catching bluefish.

Carmine Petrone, manager of the fishing department at Camp-Site Sports Shop is a familiar person at the tournament having been one of the judges during these years. Visors that looked like a turtle were also raffled off. Other donors included sponsor The Fisherman magazine which donated the worms, hooks and bobbers.

Robert McCormick from the Diversified Education Curriculum at Stony Brook University made up packets to be put in the goody bags that were given to each angler. The packets contained information about catching fish in New York and Long Island, as well as cards identifying fish that are caught in New York State. Caleb Smith State Park Preserve included information about the park and fishing. Also in the goody bags the Friends group included fun fish-related treats such as puzzles, and goldfish crackers.

Morning winners, from left, Dominick Ferrentino, Easton Hodge, and Christian McFarland. Photos courtesy of Friends of Caleb Smith See more photos from the event at www.tbrnewsmedia.com Tom Tokosh, co-chairperson of the tournament, said “It was a great day. Everyone caught a fish. See you next year."