The Week Ahead in Malverne and West Hempstead

The benefits of growing native
The Malverne Public Library will host an in-depth lecture on the significance of native plant gardens on Monday, April 16, from 7 to 8:15 p.m. The lecture will include examples of native plant gardens on Long Island, and a step-by-step process for incorporating these well-adapted native plants into your own garden. This program is brought to you by a Master Gardener from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County. Info: (516) 599-0750.

Savvy social security for baby boomers
Are you prepared? Do you know how to maximize your retirement income? Visit the West Hempstead Public Library on Monday, April 16, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. to learn all about managing your social security. Rory Pinsky will address these questions, and more, in this informative program. Info: (516) 481-6591.

Tai Chi exercise
Take part in an ancient Chinese tradition at the Lakeview Public Library on Thursday, April 19, from 6 to 7 p.m. Tai chi, which has been in existence for centuries, is currently practiced as a graceful form of exercise. Shifu, or Master Teacher Pam Dye will lead this practice. Please register at least three days prior to the program. Out-of-district patrons will be charged a $5 fee per class. Info: (516) 536-3071.


An evening with Manhattan Chamber Players
The Freeport Community Concert Association welcomes spring with the Manhattan Chamber Players, on Saturday, April 14, at 8 p.m., at Freeport High School. The young, exuberant ensemble boasts an impressive roster of talent from The Juilliard School, Curtis Institute and New England Conservatory of Music, among others. They will present a lively program of string, piano and wind trios, quartets and quintets, sharing their passion for historic classic chamber music with a nod to the present. Info: (516) 867-1195 or www.freeportconcertassociation.com.

Rhythmic grooves with Red Baraat
The versatile Brooklyn-based band visits the area on Friday, April, 13, at 8 p.m., with a high energy fusion of jazz, hip-hop, rock, funky go-go, and scalding hot bhangra. The group’s charismatic leader, Sunny Jain, holds the explosive songs together with rhythms from his dhol, the Indian double-headed drum played slung over the shoulder that provides bhangra with its heartbeat. Info: (516) 767-6444 or www.landmarkonmainstreet.org.