Down on the Farm

Despite the prediction of groundhog Punxatawney Phil that spring is just around the corner, it continues to be a long, hard winter for the residents of the and their caretakers.

According to volunteers, mornings have been particularly daunting because of the accumulation of snow and ice.

“Lots of ongoing shoveling has had to be done just to get access to the animals before the core work of feeding, watering, and changing their bedding can begin,” said volunteer Lorene Eriksen. “It’s been really hard on everyone.”

With the unrelenting cold, plenty of dry bedding is key to keeping the animals warm once the sun goes down. Water buckets freeze overnight, and must be cracked open and replenished with fresh water on a daily basis, Eriksen indicated.

With so many hungry mouths to feed and a wish list that includes running electric to enclosures for heated water buckets, and funds for extra bedding material, the Friends of the Farm are asking the community to show their support by turning out for their biggest fundraiser of the year- the annual Barn Dance.

The 15th annual celebration of this enduring vestige of Northport’s fading rural past will take place on Saturday, March 5 from 7 to 11 pm. As in the past, the Barn Dance will be held at . One hundred percent of the donations and money raised by the feel-good event will go to the care of the animals and the preservation of the farm.

According to Wendy Erlandson, the Friends of the Farm have decided to mix things up a bit this year with an intoxicating array of food from fine local establishments.

“, Jimmy’s Pizza, , and are generously donating food,” Erlandson said, adding that shrimp cocktail and freshly shucked clams will be on the menu.

The offerings resemble a tasting menu, and there’ll be numerous stations so there won’t be long lines, Erlandson said.

Beer, wine, soda, coffee and dessert will also be served.

Musical entertainment by Jeff Mucciolo & The Moonshine Band as well as Johnny and the Ghost Riders will help draw the crowd onto the dance floor, volunteer Patt Ruvolo said, adding that guests can look forward to some line dancing.

Part of the excitement of the barn dance has always been the abundance of raffle and door prizes. Some items up for grabs include a Bulova watch, a Pandora bracelet, a silver pig pendant, professional vehicle detailing, tickets to the Engeman theater, and so much more.

Stuart Besen, dubbed “keeper of the farm” by Huntington Town Supervisor Frank Petrone for leading the battle to preserve the Lewis Oliver Farm, will be on hand as master of ceremonies.

“The Lewis Oliver Farm has always had a special place in my heart,” Besen said, adding that he encourages members of the community to come on down and celebrate the farm’s enduring legacy with their neighbors on Saturday night.

“Children are welcome. It’s a great family night out,” Besen said, adding that this tradition harks back to bygone days when community members hosted such events to raise money for  projects, such as barn raisings.

Tickets are $50 per person in advance or $55 at the door.

To purchase tickets, contact volunteers Patt Ruvolo at (631)757-8065 or Lynn Ruvolo at (631) 757-9626.