there is no clear genetic cause, and the seizures may be due to structural abnormalities in the brain due to infections, brain, trauma, tumors or stroke, to name just a few examples. Sometimes, no clear cause is found on initial testing, and the neurologist has to look further.
Dr. Spiegel: For most, anti-seizure drugs help control the seizures while minimizing medication side effects. Diet can also be a treatment for some, such as the ketogenic diet or a modified Atkins diet, when prescribed by a physician and carefully monitored by a dietitian.
Due to COVID-19 the support group is still virtual.
Come share your experiences, network and support one another. Family members, patients and caretakers are all welcome.
Call: (631) 444-8119 to register
Free. Open to all patients, family members and caregivers.
Epilepsy and seizures affect more than three million Americans.
What’s the difference between a seizure and epilepsy?
Dr. Mikell: Seizures happen when your nerve cells fire more rapidly and with less control than usual, affecting how you act or feel. These range from a brief sensory or motor abnormality to a full loss of consciousness with the potential for falling, shaking and difficulty breathing. Epilepsy refers to a brain disorder resulting in multiple seizures.
Does having a seizure mean you have epilepsy?
Dr. Spiegel: No, seizures are not always related to epilepsy. They can be a symptom of a disruption of brain function, such as from a high fever (in children), exposure to certain medications or substances as well as an electrolyte imbalance. Ten percent of Americans will experience a seizure at least once in their lifetime; the highest incidence occurring under the age of two and over the age of 65.
Dr. Spiegel: Epilepsy may be related to genetic factors that lead brain cells to misfire and can begin in infancy and childhood. However, in most cases,
Dr. Mikell: When anti-seizure medications and dietary modifications fail, surgery may be recommended for those whose seizures are associated with structural brain abnormalities, such as brain tumors, malformations of blood vessels and damage related to strokes. There are basically three types of seizure surgery — the surgical removal (resection) of the lesion that is causing the seizure, ablation (using heat to treat the lesion) and electronic modulation that delivers current to the brain before a seizure happens to control or reduce the seizure’s effect. All of these surgeries can be performed at Stony Brook.
Dr. Mikell: Most people with epilepsy do very well when properly diagnosed and treated. Nationally, two out of three people with epilepsy can be expected to enter remission; that is, five or more years free of seizures while using medication.
Dr. Spiegel: Stony Brook is a National Association of Epilepsy Centers-designated Level 4 Epilepsy Center. This is the highest level an epilepsy center can attain. It means that an epilepsy center must have the professional expertise and facilities to provide the most advanced level of medical and surgical evaluation and treatment for patients with complex epilepsy. Patients who have persistent, recurrent seizures or those with an unconfirmed seizure diagnosis can benefit from the advanced services and technology we offer. This includes access to positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging of various types (PET/ MRI),
used to detect brain lesions that may not have been detected previously. Seizures and epilepsy can involve and affect multiple body systems, and having a team of specialists readily available helps achieve more effective treatment plans. Our team includes adult and pediatric epileptologists, neuropsychologists; radiologists; and neurosurgeons like Dr. Chuck Mikell and Dr. David Chesler, who are experts in the latest surgical techniques for epilepsy.
Our center also features 11-bed dedicated video-EEG epilepsy monitoring units with 24/7 observation staff and a portable video-EEG epilepsy monitoring system that can be set up anywhere in the hospital for patients who may be experiencing seizures. We also have a stateof-the-art neuro ICU with 10 EEG beds and one dedicated pediatric ICU bed. And our patients and their families benefit from clinical trials and our support and education services, including a nurse practitioner and a support group co-run by one of our physicians and a social worker.
For more information about our Stony Brook Level 4 Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, visit: neuro.stonybrookmedicine.edu/centers/epilepsy
This article is intended to be general and/or educational in nature. Always consult your healthcare professional for help, diagnosis, guidance and treatment. Stony Brook University/SUNY is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer. 22100423H
innocent lives that have been lost to overdose and addiction since the pandemic. They are from our community. They have mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters that live among us. I know these days are hard for their families. We must never forget but always remember their gift of life.
BY FATHER FRANCIS PIZZARELLI
The holiday season is in full bloom. Our beautiful villages with Christmas lights and wreaths reminds us what this time of year is supposed to be about. We celebrate the holiday season across a landscape that is polarized and profoundly divisive.
Our recent midterm elections have made the powerful statement that Americans are tired of hearing about election steal lies. They are tired of conspiracy theories and rhetoric that is blatantly false and disgraceful.
The midterm elections have made a powerful statement that democracy is more powerful than autocracy; that we as a nation want to move forward and find new ways to collaborate with each other for the sake of all Americans.
As you prepare to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah, I hope our faith leaders have the courage to stand up and speak for truth, for social justice and respect for all people no matter what their race, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic class.
Our silence, when it comes to serious life issues that impact all of us, is a statement of complicity. Shame on those of us who hold positions of religious leadership and remain silent. Shame on those who hold positions of religious leadership and fuel the hate and polarization that is paralyzing our nation.
However, despite this chaotic landscape I continue to remain exceptionally hopeful because I am blessed to see miracles and human transformation every day.
Every morning when I get up, I look out at our garden of remembrance. There are more than 120 crosses representing all the
Human kindness continues to live on in our midst. Hopefully during this holiday season, it will become contagious. Recently a retired schoolteacher told me a powerful story. She was on line at Taco Bell in her car and her eyes met the eyes of a man in a red truck in front of her. It was just a momentary glance. When she got to the window to pay, the cashier told her there was no charge. The man in the red truck had covered her meal. Needless to say, she was overwhelmed.
The cashier gave her a note which I have permission to share with you: “To the person behind me in line, please accept this small act of kindness today as a reminder that all of us have bad days, but not all of us were fortunate enough to wake up this morning and have a day at all. No matter how hard it gets, keep going! You are stronger than your most difficult hour, and there are so many people supporting you even if you haven’t met them yet. Peace, love, tacos — a random stranger.”
As we celebrate the holiday season this year, let us reach out with random kindness to the strangers in our midst that could become our friends!
Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.
A Doctor who is board-certified 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.
Joseph “Bob” Annunziata, a resident of Kings Park, wants you not to be like him.
An army veteran, Annunziata urges residents and, in particular, other veterans, to pay attention to their medical needs and to take action when they find out they have a problem.
A self-described “tough guy” who grew up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Annunziata put off medical care for a partially blocked left carotid artery and it caused a medical crisis.
“My brother and sister vets, if you got a pain or the doctor tells you to do something, do it,” he said. “It almost cost me my life. I don’t want that to happen to anyone else.”
Annunziata, 80, was driving to the supermarket on Veterans Day when his right hand became limp and he was slurring his speech. Knowing he was in trouble, he turned the car around and drove 10 minutes to the Northport VA Medical Center.
The doctors evaluated him and rushed him to Stony Brook University, which is well equipped to handle stroke-related emergencies and is the only hospital in the state named one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Stroke Care for eight years in a row.
Several doctors evaluated Annunziata, including by Dr. David Fiorella, Director of the Stony Brook Cerebrovascular Center and Co-Director of the Stony Brook Cerebrovascular and Comprehensive Stroke Center, and Jason Mathew, stroke neurologist.
“We identified that there was a severe blockage in the left side of his brain,” said Dr. Mathew. “If blood flow is not returned to this area, the patient is at risk for a larger area of stroke.”
Indeed, a larger stroke could have caused right side paralysis and could have robbed Annunziata of his ability to speak or worse.
Performing emergency surgery could protect endangered brain cells, but also presented some risk. If not removed carefully and completely, the clot in the carotid artery could travel into the brain or the stroke could expand over time due to a lack of sufficient blood flow to the left side of the brain.
Stony Brook doctors discussed the particulars of the case together and explained the situation to Annunziata, who could understand what they were describing and respond despite symptoms that threatened to deteriorate.
The hospital, which does between 200 and 250 interventional stroke treatments per year and handles many more strokes than that annually, has a group of health care specialists who can provide accessible information to patients who are not experts in the field and who need to make an informed decision under time pressure.
Stony Brook has become adept at “conveying this complex information in a time-sensitive way,” Dr. Fiorella said. In those cases for which surgery is the best option, each minute that the doctors don’t open up a blood vessel reduces the benefits and increases the risk of longerterm damage.
Stony Brook sees about one to two of these kinds of cases per month. As a whole, the hospital, which is a large referral center, sees numerous complex and unusual cerebrovascular cases of all types, Dr. Fiorella said.
Annunziata and the doctors decided to have the emergency surgery.
Dr. Fiorella used a balloon guiding catheter, which is a long tube with a working inner lumen that has a soft balloon on the outside of it that is designed to temporarily block flow. He deploys these occlusion balloons in most all stroke cases.
The particular way he used it in these complete carotid occlusions is unique. The balloon guiding catheter makes interventional stroke procedures more efficient, safer, and the outcomes better, according to data for thrombectomy, Dr. Fiorella said.
The occlusion balloon enabled Dr. Fiorella to control blow flow the entire time, which makes the procedure safer. The surgery took under an hour and involved a small incision in Annunziata’s right wrist.
After the surgery, Annunziata was able to speak to doctors and call Rosemarie Madrose, his girlfriend of five and a half years.
“He came out talking,” said Madrose. “I could understand him. I was relieved.” Four days after the emergency operation, Annunziata, who also received post operative care from Dr. Yuehjien Gu, Neurocritical Care Unit Director, left the hospital and returned to his home, where
he spent the next morning preparing a welcome meal of a scrambled egg and two slices of toast.
The doctors attribute Annunziata’s quick recovery to a host of factors. Getting himself to the hospital as soon as symptoms started saved precious minutes, Dr. Fiorella
said, as “time is brain.” He also advised against driving for people having strokelike symptoms, which can include slurred speech, numbness, weakening of the arm or leg and loss of vision in one eye.
Dr. Fiorella urged people to call for help or to get a ride in an ambulance. Stony Brook has two mobile stroke unit ambulances, which are equipped with technology to assess patients while en route, saving time and alerting doctors in the hospital to patients who might need immediate attention and intervention.
These mobile units, which are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., have helped reduce death and disability for stroke and have cut down the length of stays in the hospital.
People or family and friends who are observing someone who might be having a stroke can call 911 and indicate that the patient is having stroke-like symptoms. The emergency operator will alert the mobile stroke unit of a possible case if the unit is available and the patient is in range.
The doctors involved in Annunziata’s care were well aware of the fact that they were treating a veteran on Veterans Day.
“Oftentimes, we think about how we can give back more than just a thank you” to people like Annunziata, who “risked his life and helped his country the way he could,” said Dr. Mathew. “I’m helping him the way I can help.”
Dr. Fiorella added that he thought it was “wonderful” to “help someone who’s given so much to our country on Veterans Day.”
Annunziata explained that he wound up in the Army through a circuitous route. “We watched all the war movies” when he was young and wanted to join the Marines, he said.
When he went to enlist in 1962, he was told there was a two and a half year wait. He and his young friends got the same reception at the Air Force, Navy and the Army.
As they were leaving the Army building on Whitehall Street, he and his friends ran into a sergeant with numerous medals on his uniform. The sergeant urged them to go back up the hallway and enter the first door on the right and indicate that they wanted to expedite the draft. About a week later, Annunziata was drafted and got a 15 cent token in the mail for a train trip to Wall Street.
After basic training at Fort Dix, he was stationed in Greenland, where Annunziata operated a radar at the top of a mountain for two years. He participated in drills in which he had to catch American planes flying overhead.
Fortunately, he said, even during the height of the Cold War and just months after the Cuban Missile Crisis, Annunziata never spotted a Russian threat, even though the base was just 20 minutes from Russian air space.
Having gone through emergency surgery that likely saved his life, Annunziata urges residents to pay attention to any medical needs on their radar.
Dr. Fiorella was amazed at how quickly Annunziata expressed concern for his fellow veterans during his recovery.
“One of the first things he talked about was, ‘How can I use what happened to me to help other vets?’” Dr. Fiorella said.
Annunziata’s girlfriend Madrose, who is grateful that the procedure saved his life, said he “didn’t listen to me. He knew he had to do this. I kept saying, ‘When are you going to do it?’ He said, ‘I will, I will, I will.’ He learned the hard way.” She added that they both know he is “extremely lucky.”
Since being diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatic, an autoimmune disease, I have been unable to raise my arms laterally. The range of motion has improved by more than 90 percent - it’s night and day compared to when I began with Dr. Dunaief. The rheumatologist now says I am fit as a fiddle. I am very excited since being on the lifestyle changes for 2 months and noticing the differences. I dropped almost 2 pants sizes – the suit I purchased for my daughter’s sweet 16 about 14 years ago is now too large. And, I am sleeping much better.
Male, age 57
I have more energy and vitality. My inflammation has gone down. My cholesterol is under better control with a 75% reduction in my medication. My cataracts have improved dramatically with the ophthalmologist saying I needed surgery two years ago, but now no longer thinks so. This is a really great experience. I really enjoy working with Dr. Dunaief. I’m at my best weight in years, and I am not even trying. He is the best doctor I have ever had and the reason is that we are working together. When you feel like you have control over your health it makes a big difference. I’m really happy with my triglyceride levels as well. The cardiologist was so pleased with my progress on cardiovascular disease that he said I could see him half as frequently.
Female, age 77
My morning stiffness has improved greatly. There were times at the beginning where it was several hours before I felt better. Now, I’m moving faster in the morning. Sometimes my toes bother
me a little bit, but it goes away in 20 minutes. I am continuing to decrease my methotrexate, which thrills me!
Female, age 57
I have suffered from Meniere’s disease for years, but since working with Dr. Dunaief and changing my lifestyle, I have absolutely no episodes. This is the first hiatus I have had in a long time. My ENT doctor was impressed. Prior to working with him, I was having increased frequency ear fullness and now that is gone.
Female, age 42
You make patients feel really comfortable.
Female, age 74
Thanks to Dr. Dunaief’s guidance, my blood pressure is under control and I was able to discontinue my medication. I have a family history of heart attack with my father dying at 60. I love having more energy, and I have lost my taste for junk food. I can ride my bike more and it feels like less effort. I look forward to the appointments. I am finding it easier to eat more consciously, which is one of the great benefits of these visits. It keeps me on track with eating knowing I am coming here. Also, this is the first time in 30 years that I did not have to take medication during allergy season. It is fantastic. My peripheral neuropathy is improving and this is one of the main reasons I came to see him. I’m using an inversion table for spinal stenosis suggested by Dr. Dunaief, and when I get off the table it feels amazingly good.
Male, age 65
During the summer, we talk a lot about the dangers of dehydration. However, it can also cause problems during the cooler winter months.
95 percent of the weights of many fruits and vegetables are attributed to water. An added bene t is an increased satiety level without eating calorically dense foods. Remember that salty foods can dehydrate you, including breads and pastries, so try to avoid these.
Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will be hosting a Share the Warmth Drive now through Dec. 31. An annual tradition, the drvie encourages individuals to bring in new or hand-made mittens, scarves, hats, gloves, or socks. Donation boxes will be located in the Library lobby to the le of the Circulation Desk, and all are welcome to donate (residents or nonresidents) during Library hours. For more info, call 631-941-4080.
Dry heat quickly evaporates moisture in the air, making it hard to stay hydrated or to keep any humidity in your home or o ce. is can dehydrate us.
BY DAVID DUNAIEF, MDComplications and symptoms of dehydration can be mild to severe, ranging from constipation, mood changes, headaches and heart palpitations to heat stroke, migraines and heart attacks.
In addition, the dry air can make our throats and sinuses dry, making us uncomfortable and more susceptible to irritations and viruses.
Let’s look at some of the consequences of dehydration and suggestions for keeping hydration up.
In a review of studies published in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology, those who drank four cups more water had signi cantly fewer hours of migraine pain than those who drank less (1). Headache intensity decreased as well.
Heart palpitations are very common and are broadly felt as a racing heart rate, skipped beat, pounding sensation or uttering. Dehydration and exercise contributing to this (2). ey occur mainly when we don’t hydrate prior to exercise. If you drink one glass of water before exercise and then drink during exercise, it will help avoid palpitations. ough these symptoms are not usually life-threatening, they can make you anxious.
e Adventist Health Study showed that men who drank more water had the least risk of death from heart disease (3). Group one, which drank more than ve glasses of water daily, had less risk than group two, which drank more than three. ose in group three, which drank fewer than two glasses per day, saw the lowest bene t,
comparatively. For women, there was no di erence between groups one and two; both fared better than group three.
e reason for this e ect, according to the authors, may relate to blood or plasma viscosity (thickness) and brinogen, a substance that helps clots form.
Mild dehydration resulted in decreased concentration, subdued mood, fatigue and headaches in women in a small study (4). e mean age of participants was 23, and they were neither athletes nor highly sedentary. Dehydration was caused by walking on a treadmill with or without taking a diuretic (water pill) prior to the exercise. e authors concluded that adequate hydration was needed, especially during and a er exercise.
I would also suggest, from my practice experience, hydration prior to exercise.
How do we go about this? How much water we need to drink depends on circumstances, such as diet, activity levels, environment and other factors. It is not true necessarily that we all should be drinking eight glasses of water a day. In a review article, the authors analyzed the data, but did not nd adequate studies to suggest that eight glasses is the magic number (5). It may actually be too much for some patients.
You may also get a signi cant amount of water from the foods in your diet. Nutrientdense diets, like Mediterranean or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets, have a plant-rich focus. Diets with a focus on fruits and vegetables increase water consumption (6). As you may know,
In a review, it was suggested that ca einated co ee and tea don’t increase the risk of dehydration, even though ca eine is a mild diuretic (7). With moderate amounts of ca einated beverages, the liquid has a more hydrating e ect than its diuretic e ect.
To reduce sinus in ammation and dry skin that heated air can promote, measure the humidity level in your home with a hygrometer and target keeping it between 30 and 50 percent (8). When the temperature outside drops below 10 degrees F, lower this to 25 percent.
Strategies for adding moisture to the air include using cool mist humidi ers, keeping the bathroom door open a er you bathe or shower, and placing bowls of water strategically around your home, including on your stovetop when you cook. If you use a humidi er, take care to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and clean it regularly.
It is important to stay hydrated to avoid complications — some are serious, but all are uncomfortable. Diet is a great way to ensure that you get the triple e ect of high nutrients, increased hydration and sense of feeling satiated without caloriedense foods. However, don’t go overboard with water consumption, especially if you have congestive heart failure or open-angle glaucoma (9).
(1) Handb Clin Neurol. 2010;97:16172. (2) my.clevelandclinic.org. (3) Am J Epidemiol 2002 May 1; 155:827-33. (4) J. Nutr. February 2012 142: 382-388. (5) AJP – Regu Physiol. 2002;283:R993-R1004. (6) Am J Lifestyle Med. 2011;5(4):316-319. (7) Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2007;35(3):135140. (8) epa.gov (9) Br J Ophthalmol. 2005:89:1298–1301.
Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, tness and stress management. For further information, visit www. medicalcompassmd.com.
e Steam Room Restaurant, 4 East Broadway, Port Je erson will be serving a free anksgiving meal on ursday, Nov. 24 with turkey, stu ng and all the xins from noon to 5 p.m., courtesy of owner Vinny Seiter. is o er is available to all. For more information, call 631-928-6690.
eatre ree, 412 Main Street, Port Je erson seeks volunteers to serve as ushers for their Main Stage productions and children's theater performances. As an usher, you will help seat guests, sell ra e tickets and see a show for free! Volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated and at least 16 years of age or older. Join the eatre ree family and become a valued volunteer! For more information, call 631928-9100.
e Curry Club at Saghar, 111 West Broadway, Port Je erson hosts a North Shore Mixer business networking event on Monday, Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. bringing local businesses, chambers of commerce, restaurant owners, managers and sta together under one roof with music, entertainment and prizes. Tickets are $20 on eventbrite.com. Questions? Call 631751-4845.
e American Cancer society seeks volunteers on Long Island to drive cancer patients from their home to cancer treatment centers through its Road to Recovery program. Volunteers can schedule at their convenience and donate their time and miles, with most trips lasting an hour. All applicants are prescreened through DMV and provided with a short training. To apply for this role, the Society asks volunteers to ll out an online form at www.cancer.org/drive.
Send your event listings to leisure@tbrnewspapers.com
We think it's safe to say that Scrooge doesn't live here! This house on the corner of Barnum Avenue and Oakes Street in the Village of Port Jefferson definately makes the Nice List as it spreads holiday cheer to all who pass it with a 15-foot tall Rudolph, Frosty and even Santa Claus (hiding behind Frosty) with giant ornaments hanging over the porch. See it for yourself this Sunday before the Santa Parade heads down Main Street at 3 p.m. with the real Santa Claus!
tbrnewspapers.com
A Durable Power of Attorney (“DPOA”) is a statutory form that enables a person to empower a loved one or trusted individual to manage finances and property on their behalf. The concept is, even if one lacks legal capacity to handle their own financial and business affairs, their appointed agent will be able to use the document to access bank accounts, sign checks, pay bills, and carry out essential estate planning for Medicaid asset protection purposes. Note that not all powers of attorney are the same, the particular powers that the agent will have will depend on how the document is drafted.
BY NANCY BURNER ESQ.Since the standard statutory form does not include any gifting over $5,000, modifications must be included with additional provisions supplementing the authority granted to the agent. For starters, the document must specifically authorize gifting. In the scenario where assets need to be transferred to the spouse and the spouse is the agent in the document, it must also specify the authority for self-gifting.
As long-term care, including home care and nursing home care, is not covered by health insurance, many people look to Medicaid as a pay source. Medicaid, however, is a means- based program for which qualification requires an individual prove they have no more than $16,800 in assets (in 2022). Further, there is a 5-year lookback period for nursing home Medicaid. This means that upon application, there is a scrutiny of the prior five years of the financial life of the applicant and their spouse, looking for any assets gifted within the 5 years prior to applying. While there are certain allowable or exempt transfers, all other transfers will result in a “penalty period,” a period of time during which Medicaid will not assist with the costs of care.
Fortunately, there are several exempt transfers that do not incur a penalty period, the most common being a transfer of assets to one’s spouse. Thus, if one urgently needs nursing home care, but has assets above the Medicaid limit, they can transfer assets to their spouse to bring themselves under the resource limit to qualify for Medicaid without penalty. In certain circumstances, assets can also be transferred to individuals other than the spouse,
This is where the DPOA comes into play because if the Medicaid applicant lacks mental capacity, they will not be able to transfer assets. And, contrary to popular belief, a spouse does not have the authority to access the other’s bank accounts or other assets simply because they are married— unless the spouse were a joint owner, they would need a DPOA or be appointed legal guardian by the court, a costly and timeconsuming process.
While authorizing your agent to gift assets to themselves can be critical to securing Medicaid coverage, it should not be done without careful consideration. Any assets transferred would no longer be governed by the will, trust, or other estate planning documents of that person. Once property is transferred to another person, it is theirs and, while one would hope they would follow the wishes of the principal, it raises the risk that chosen beneficiaries will be disinherited. Choosing an agent that a principal trusts completely to follow their wishes and only do what is in their best interest is a necessary part of this type of planning.
The decision whether to grant the agent the authority to self-gift under a DPOA is not an easy one and there is no “right” answer. On the one hand, allowing the agent to gift assets to themselves may be the only way to quickly qualify for nursing home Medicaid coverage if one lacks the legal capacity to transfer the assets. On the other hand, an agent may never be needed to gift or self-gift because Medicaid is not needed or there are other ways of gaining eligibility.
The moral of the story is to address estate planning with an experienced elder law attorney sooner rather than later to advise on these issues and draft the appropriate DPOA document. There are various strategies by which assets can be protected for Medicaid eligibility while effectively ensuring that assets are left to chosen beneficiaries at the time of death.
Nancy Burner, Esq. is the founder and managing partner at Burner Law Group, P.C with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, New York City and East Hampton.
BY CAYLA ROSENHAGEN
Garland-bedecked main streets and ancient forests blanketed in sparkly snow aren’t the only idyllic qualities of wintertime in the Three Villages; it is the area’s warm and embracing community that invokes the holiday spirit above all else. That said, there’s nothing that says “community” and “holiday spirit” better than a winter market!
From farmers and chefs to crafters and artisans, vendors from all over are welcome to participate in the very first annual Three Village Winter Market, hosted by the Three Village Historical Society on Dec. 10 and 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
As the TVHS says on their website, “Give big by shopping small”—and locally —this season. Not only does shopping locally at fairs and markets support the community we love, but it can also reduce our carbon footprint. Plus, you’re bound to find one-of-a-kind items that are homegrown, handcrafted, or home cooked. According to Dan Murphy, the TVHS staff member organizing the event,
“There is something personal when you visit these small shops and vendors. I love the care that everyone puts into their work; it’s not just an item to sell, it is a passion, an art, and it’s worth sharing and certainly worth supporting that type of art and creativity.”
Located on the grounds of the Three Village Historical Society’s headquarters at 93 North Country Road in Setauket, the Winter Market is expected to feature at least 50 vendors selling everything from soaps, candles, beeswax, stained glass, and chainsaw art to wine, cheese, chocolate, and macarons.
Keep an eye out for adorable and skillfully made felted gifts at Ewes and Coos Felted; delectable, homemade treats at Barry’s Baked Goods; fragrant soaps; and balms at Amadeus Aromatherapy; beautifully crafted stained glass ornaments and hangings by Cashmere Pecan; custom scented soy candles by The Cinnamon Candle, woodworking inspired by our rich maritime history by The Nautical Arts Workshop and so much more. The event will also feature a children's crafting station and is dog-friendly
LeadingAge NY has named Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center resident Ms. Victoria Hren and Gurwin Art and Recreation Therapist Ms. Johanna Cutolo, ATR-BC, CTRS, winners in the 2022 LeadingAge New York Art Exhibit. The annual contest solicits entries throughout the state from LeadingAge New York trade association members, including residents, staff and volunteers of skilled nursing facilities, and Adult Day Health Care Council (ADHCC) members.
Ms. Hren was presented with the Staff Choice Award for her acrylic painting entitled Fall with Birch; Ms. Cutolo received the Contributing Staff Artist award for her oil painting entitled East End Vista. Both winning pieces will be on display at the LeadingAge NY corporate office in upstate Latham.
Gurwin’s residents are perennial participants in the contest and have garnered awards over the years for their creative artwork. Ms. Cutolo has lead art-therapy programs at Gurwin since the community
Stop by the Society’s museum, located in the circa 1800 Bayles-Swezey house and decorated in Victorian-era holiday finery to check out their award-winning exhibits and the gift shop’s exclusive holiday offers. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are welcomed.
If you are interested in participating as a vendor, please reach out to the TVHS through their website at www.tvhs.org/ wintermarket to sign up. Artisans and small businesses of all kinds are welcome to bring their wares to sell. Each space is 10x10 feet, and participants are required to bring their own tents and tables. Vendors can purchase a spot for $100 for one day or $150 for the whole weekend. These fees are non-refundable unless the whole event is canceled due to inclement weather. Please reach out to Dan via email for additional information at market@tvhs.org.
“It truly is so inspiring to see so many Long Island-based entrepreneurs that bring so much talent to the table,” said Mari Irizarry, TVHS director. “This Winter Market honors their struggles and their craft. Our one and only wish that we’ll be sending off to Santa is that the community
The Cinnamon Candle will be selling custom-scented soy candles at the 1st annual Three Village Winter Market. comes out and helps each vendor completely sell out! … See you at the Winter Market!”
For more information, call 631-751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.
opened its doors in 1988; this year marks her first foray into the competition as a contestant.
“I am thrilled to have been selected as a winner and honored to be able to represent Gurwin in the LeadingAge Art show,” said Ms. Cutolo. “I am equally pleased hat Ms. Hren’s artwork was chosen by the judges. It is a privilege to guide our residents in their artistic expression and watch their creative abilities develop.”
Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright, members of the Three Village Chamber of Commerce, friends and family recently attended the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for Taj Crown of India, a new restaurant located at 10 Woods Corner Road in East Setauket.
Taj Crown of India is owned by siblings Dr. Neeru Kumar, Paras Kumar and Nisha Sachdeva. Since they were children, they spent time in their parent’s authentic Indian restaurant, Shere Punjab, in Queens, New York. As this was a family business, they helped with customer service, waiting, deliveries and catering for 20 years. Their goal with their new restaurant is to introduce the authenticity of Indian food to Brookhaven residents.
“The opening of Taj in Setauket was a happy and exciting moment for local business in our area. Opening a restaurant is an ambitious undertaking and holding the opening during the holiday of Diwali added additional meaningfulness and optimism to the launch," said Councilmember
Kornreich. "The restaurant may be called Taj Crown of India, but this elegant and gracious restaurant will definitely be a jewel in the crown of our diverse and exciting local restaurant scene. Wishing nothing but good luck and success to all our friends at Taj," he added.
"As you visit, try the food and look around, you will see we serve to provide the best quality, excellent ambiance and great service. Our goal is to introduce the authenticity of Indian food that has been missing in Suffolk County. People will no longer have to travel to Hicksville or Jackson Heights to find curries blended with perfect herbs and spices. Come, enjoy and let us make you feel like royalty,” said Nisha Sachdeva.
Pictured at the ribbon cutting, from left, are Thre Village Chamber treasurer Martha Stansbury; NYS Assemblyman Steve Englebright; co-owner Nisha Sachdeva; Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Three Village Community Trust President Herb Mones and Three Village Chamber Director Jane Taylor.
For more information, call 631-825-2345 or visit www.tajcrownofindia.com.
You can find many ways to support charitable organizations.
One method that’s gained popularity over the past few years is called a donor-advised fund. Should you consider it?
BY MICHAEL CHRISTODOULOUThe answer depends on your individual situation, because donor-advised funds are not appropriate for everyone. However, if you’re in a position to make larger charitable gifts, you might at least want to see what this strategy has to offer.
Here’s how it works:
Contribute to the fund. You can contribute to your donor-advised fund with cash or marketable securities, which are assets that can be converted to cash quickly. If your contribution is tax deductible, you’ll get the deduction in the year you make the
contribution to the fund. Of course, these contributions are still subject to IRS limits on charitable tax deductions and whether you itemize your deductions.
If you typically don’t give enough each year to itemize and plan on making consistent charitable contributions, you could consider combining multiple years’ worth of planned giving into a single donoradvised fund contribution, and claim a larger deduction in that year. This move may be especially impactful if you have years with a higher amount of income, with an accompanying higher tax rate. If you contribute marketable securities, like stocks and bonds, into the fund, a subsequent sale of the securities avoids capital gains taxes, maximizing the impact of your contribution.
Choose an investment. Typically, donoradvised funds offer several professionally managed diversified portfolios where you can place your contributions. You’ll want to consider the level of investment risk to which your fund may be exposed. And assuming all requirements are met, any investment growth is not taxable to you, the donor-advised fund or the charity that ultimately receives the grant, making your charitable gift go even further.
Choose the charities. You can choose grants for the IRS-approved charities that you want to support. You decide when you want the money donated and how it should be granted. You’re generally free to choose as many IRS-approved charitable organizations as you like. And the tax reporting is relatively easy — you don’t have to keep track of
receipts from every charity you support. Instead, you can just keep the receipts from your contributions to the fund.
Although donor-advised funds clearly offer some benefits, there are important trade-offs to consider. For one thing, your contributions are irrevocable, which means once you put the money in the fund, you cannot access it for any reason other than charitable giving. And the investments you choose within your fund will carry some risk, as is true of all investments. Also, donor-advised funds do have investment management fees and other costs. So, consider the impacts of these fees when deciding how you want to give.
In any case, you should consult with your tax and financial professionals before opening a donor-advised fund. And if the fund becomes part of your estate plans, you’ll also want to work with your legal advisor. But give this philanthropic tool some thought — it can help you do some good while also potentially benefiting your own long-term financial strategy.
Michael Christodoulou, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPC®, CRPS® is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Stony Brook. Member SIPC.
More than 250 guests turned out in their fall fashions to honor Island Federal Credit Union at the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) NY Metro 5th Annual Fall Celebration at Flowerfield in St. James, on Nov. 9. The event raised more than $125,000 for programs in Suffolk County.
Members of the Island Federal Credit Union Board of Directors and Management Team were on hand for the celebration, including Island Federal Credit Union Branch Manager Jose Melendez and his family, who spoke about their personal connection to the Ronald McDonald House and the positive impact the organization has had on their lives.
The funds will go toward the ongoing operation of RMHC NYM’s two Family Rooms at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and Stony Brook Medicine Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which opened earlier this year. RMHC NYM intends to build a new house on the grounds of Stony Brook Hospital in the near future that will to accommodate families from across Suffolk County who have a sick child receiving care in the area.
“This was a terrific celebration of the work we have done and what we plan to do — specifically in Suffolk County — in the future,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NY Metro. “We depend so much on the support of our
community, which donates their money and their time, to help the families that come to us in their greatest hour of need. We thank each and every one of them from the bottom of our hearts.”
“Suffolk County has a tremendous need for a Ronald McDonald House, and we are determined to raise the funds to build it,” said Nick Croce, Board Member and Co-Chair
of the Suffolk County Advisory Board for RMHC NYM. “We’ve raised $16.5 million already and with this kind of sustained support, we will be putting the shovel in the ground before we know it.”
Pictured from left, Chris Murray, VP Marketing; Larry Dunn, Senior Director of Sales & Membership Experience; Damon Rivera, VP Technology; Paul Scollan, Board
of Director; Matt Campo, RMHC NYM President; Bret Sears, Island President & CEO; Jeannine Bowden, AVP; John Adragna, Board Chairman; Craig Booth, SVP/COO; Tim Aaraas, VP Retail Lending; Catherine Roger, Director of Branch Operations; Jose Melendez, Hauppauge Branch Manager; Elizabeth Cardone, Board of Director; Vinny Accardi, Member Success Specialist.
Many families have holiday traditions, whether it be baking cookies, making their favorite side dishes, decorating the tree on a certain day, going to see the same show every year or wearing matching ugly sweaters. Among those traditions is the 24-hour marathon of A Christmas Story (1983) on TBS that began in 1997 and now also runs on TNT on Dec. 24 and 25. And if you know the name of the Lone Ranger's nephew's horse, then you are a true fan.
Based on semi-autobiographical stories by Jean Shepherd, who also narrates the story, the funny holiday film follows the Parker family — 9-year-old Ralphie, his younger brother Randy, his father (the Old Man) and his mother — living in a house on Cleveland Street in fictional Hohman, Indiana and their days leading up to the Christmas of 1940.
When asked by his mother what he would like for Christmas Ralphie doesn't say Tinker toys, a football and or a Radio Flyer. He wants a bb gun — a Red Ryder carbineaction 200 Shot Range Model air rifle with a stock and a thing that tells time, to be exact. When his mother tells him no, that he'll "shoot his eye out," he goes on a quest to try to convince her otherwise. The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" in 2012.
Now the classic holiday story returns to the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport through Dec. 31 and is the perfect holiday gift for the entire family.
Directed by Mara Newberry Greer with a live orchestra conducted by Daniel Mollett, the show follows the film closely with many of the scenes we have come to love. In the role of Jean Shepherd, narrator Mark Aldrich sits on the right side of the theater and presents the story in a series of vignettes as he remembers "Another time, another place ... and a gun."
As with everything the Engeman does, the show is bold and fresh and pushes the limits of live theater to take the audience down a joyous trip down memory lane. The Old Man's major award, the Bumpus hounds, Ralphie's scuffle with Scut Farkus (what a name!) while fellow toadie Grover Dill looks helplessly on; the frosty flagpole scene with Flick and Schwartz, Randy's snowsuit, the furnace, the trip to Higbee's Department Store with Santa and the infamous slide, the flat tire, the pink bunny costume, when Ralphie almost shoots his eye out, Christmas morning around the tree and Christmas
dinner at the Chinese restaurant — all the scenes we have come to love are there in all their glory.
The entire cast is phenomenal.
As the Old Man, Ryan M. Hunt brings the house down with "A Major Award" where he dances with multiple leg lamps. Jennifer Evans is wonderful in the role of the mother, keeping calm in the household. Her rendition of "What a Mother Does" is heartfelt. Jackson Parker Gill is perfectly cast as Randy and even sounds like him, especially during the snowsuit scene.
Drawing the most laughs is Lanene Charters as Ralphie's teacher Miss Shields. Obsessed with margins, Charters is hilarious in the big Speak Easy number "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out" as she mercilessly mocks Ralphie in this terrific tap dance number.
However it is the amazingly talented Kaian Lilien in the role of Ralphie who commands the stage. His incredible performance in the opening number, "It All Comes Down to Christmas" is only topped by his rendition of "Ralphie to the Rescue!," in one of the best scenes in the show.
The period costumes by Dustin Cross perfectly set the scene and the set, designed by Kyle Dixon, is impressive as well. Two rooms featuring an authentic 1940s kitchen and living room (the heart of the home) slide front and back on the stage to accommodate other scenes including Ralphie's classroom and the alleyway, among others. The boys' bunk bed slides
out from the side. Beautifully executed!
Make this show part of your family's holiday tradition. I triple dog dare you.
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents A Christmas Story through Dec. 31. Main stage theater continues with Dirty Rotten Scoundrels from
Jan. 19 to March 5, 2023 and The Scarlet Pimpernel from March 16 to April 30, 2023. Tickets range from $80 to $85 with free valet parking. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
See more photos from the show at www.tbrnewsmedia.com
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius birthday season is in full swing right now, so you are in a festive mood. That will continue right into the holidays, when you may be the life of the party.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you can change if you want to. It just requires a little effort right now to figure out the path you want to take. Brainstorm a few ideas and you can find a goal.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Keeping secrets will only work for so long. Aquarius. Sooner or later the truth will be revealed and you will need to come clean. Take the high road from the start.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
After a few bumps, you find your groove, Pisces. Supervisors will recognize your efforts and perhaps give you the notice you deserve.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
This week no one can help you but yourself, Aries. You have to figure out a way to get to the bottom of a problem on your own.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
There are a few obstacles in your path this week, Taurus. But nothing you can’t get around. If you have a few people help you out, your work will be even easier to manage.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, when a current plan of attack isn’t working out quite right, you may have to approach it from a different direction. A new angle can bring with it a new perspective.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
You may need to push yourself a little further this week to make up for lost time, Cancer. Hunker down and get things done.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Turning a blind eye to a certain situation will not make it go away, Leo. It will only postpone the inevitable, which is getting it handled. Don’t procrastinate any longer.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Others may not want to hear the truth, but you’re still going to offer it up, Virgo. Forge ahead even if you may lose some friends in the process.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Think twice before you act this week, Libra. It’s easy to take the path ahead right now, but there may be some other way to go that could prove more rewarding in the long run.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you are looking for a change but you don’t know what that should be just yet. You may have to try on a few different shoes before you find the right fit.
Famous Birthdays:
Nov. 24 - Katherine Heigl (44); Nov. 25 - Christina Applegate (51); Nov. 26 - Garcelle Beauvais (56); Nov. 27 - Bill Nye (67); Nov. 28 - Colman Domingo (53); Nov. 29 - Anna Faris (46); Nov. 30 - Ben Stiller (57)
In Seinfeld's infamous episode #93, "The Soup," Jerry is gifted a brand new Armani suit by fellow comedian Kenny Bania. In return, Jerry agrees to take Kenny out for a meal. When Kenny only orders soup, the two debate whether soup actually constitutes a meal and if Jerry is now obligated to take Kenny out to dinner for a second time.
If Kenny had ordered one of the following soups (instead of consommé), Jerry would've been off the hook. Hearty, delicious and perfect for this chilly weather, these recipes have remained popular in my family through the years and I'm sure your family will love them too.
YIELD: Makes 8 servings
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 tablespoon oil (canola or vegetable)
• 3 carrots, thinly sliced
• 2 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
• 1 Russet potato peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon marjoram
• 1 ham bone with fat cut off
• 1 bag of green split peas
• 1/2 cup cooked diced ham
• 4 cups reduced salt chicken broth
• 4 cups water
DIRECTIONS:
In a 5 quart pot, heat oil and saute carrots celery, potato and onion for 10minutes. Add garlic, saute 1 minute. Add bay leaf, marjoram, ham bone and split peas. Add chicken broth and water and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Remove ham bone, cool, cut off meat and add to soup. Add diced ham. Serve with French bread or baked sweet potato fries.
YIELD: Makes 8 servings
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 tablespoons oil
• One pound Italian sausages, casings re moved .
• 1 1/2 cups chopped onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 celery stalk with leaves, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed dried red pepper flakes (optional)
• 5 cups canned chicken broth
• 1 14 1/2 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup elbow macaroni
• Salt and pepper to taste
Heat oil in a 6 quart Dutch Oven. Add sausages, and saute until beginning to brown, breaking up with back of spoon, about 5 minutes. Add onions, garlic, celery, basil, carrots, rosemary, and red pepper. Saute until vegetables begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Add broth, tomatoes with their juices and beans. Bring soup to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Add elbow macaroni and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with cheesy garlic bread.
YIELD: Makes 6 servings
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 tablespoons oil
• About 1 lb of beef shank cross cut
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
• 1 Russet potato, cut into cubes
• 1/3 cup barley
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 4 cups of reduced salt beef broth
• 1 cup hot water
• 1/2 package of frozen, chopped spinach
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a 5 quart pot, heat oil, add the beef and brown well on both sides. Remove
to plate and let cool. Cut meat into very small juices; save the bone. In the same pot, cook all vegetables until slightly softened. Return the meat and bone, add barley, oregano, beef broth and water. Simmer until meat is tender, about 45 minutes. Add spinach, cook 10 more minutes. Remove bone. Taste and add salt if needed. Serve with cornbread muffins.
and
“I’ve always had a sense of being an observer of my own life.” — Paul Newman
Paul Newman starred in over seventy films, including Cat on a Hit Tin Roof, Cool Hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Verdict, The Sting, The Hustler, Absence of Malice, and many more. From 1986 to 1991, the iconic Newman sat down with writer Stewart Stern (best known for the screenplay of Rebel Without a Cause) for a series of intense interviews. In addition, Stern spoke with friends, relatives, and colleagues for their perspectives. Newman’s driving force in the project was public revelation: “I want to leave some kind of record that sets things straight, pokes holes in the mythology that’s sprung up around me, destroys some of the legends, and keeps the piranhas off.”
For whatever reason, the book was left unfinished. Newman passed away in 2008, and Stern in 2015. They left behind an archive of fourteen thousand pages.
David Rosenthal has compiled and edited the chronicle into The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man (Knopf Doubleday). Presented as Newman’s memoir, Rosenthal intersperses Newman’s very personal perspective with the additional interviews. The intense, riveting work reflects a man of fascinating contradictions whose legacy lives on in cinematic history and far-reaching philanthropy. Newman’s daughter, Melissa, describes the book as “… a sort of self-dissection, a picking a part of feelings, motives, and motivations, augmented by a Greek chorus of other voices and opinions, relatives, navy buddies, and fellow artists. One overriding theme is the chronic insecurity which will be familiar to so many artists. Objectivity is fickle.”
The book is predominantly chronological, beginning with his difficult childhood. “My brother [Arthur] chose to remember the good things from our childhood, while I best recall the failures and the things that didn’t go right.”
Newman grew up in Shaker Heights, Ohio, in an almost pathologically dysfunctional middle-class family, with an alcoholic father and a narcissistic mother. (Later in life, he cut ties with the destructive matriarch.)
Insecurities, including a sense of intellectual inferiority, plagued him from a young age. “I wasn’t naturally anything. I wasn’t a lover. I wasn’t an athlete. I wasn’t a student. I wasn’t a leader. I measured things by what I wasn’t, not by anything I was. I felt that there was something lacking in me that I couldn’t bridge, didn’t know much about and couldn’t fathom.”
The book follows Newman in college years before and after World War II. There are tales of his early years onstage, a great deal of drinking (including being thrown off the football squad because of a town brawl), and more than fleeting references to his personal life. Of the theatre work, “I never enjoyed the acting, never enjoyed going out there and doing it. I enjoyed all the preliminary work — the detail, the observation, putting things together.”
He met his first wife, Jackie Witte, in a Wisconsin summer stock, and they married in 1949. (Witte speaks frankly but without rancor about her marriage to Newman.) He admits they were relatively clueless: “We were two very young people trying to act grown-up.” They had three children: Scott, Susan, and Stephanie, before divorcing in 1958. Newman highlights his struggle in coming to terms with what it meant to be a father, particularly to Scott, who would die at age twenty-eight from complications due to drug and alcohol use.
After a short and unfulfilling stint at Yale Drama School, and with very few credits, he landed a small role and understudy job in the Broadway production of William Inge’s Picnic (1953-54). Eventually, Newman stepped into the main supporting role. During the run, he met Joanne Woodward. When Newman asked director Josh Logan if he could move into the lead, Logan responded, “I’d like to, kid, but you don’t have any sex threat.” However, this would change over the next several years. “Joanne gave birth to a sexual creature. She taught him, she encouraged him, she delighted in the experimental. I was in pursuit of lust. I’m simply a creature of her invention.”
The volatile, off-again, on-again affair with Woodward eventually dissolved his marriage. Newman and Woodward married in 1958, a union that lasted the rest of his life. The book covers the highs and lows of the famous couple, giving a less hagiographic view of the relationship that endured many personal and professional highs and lows. They would have three children: Elinor, Melissa, and Claire.
Newman details his film career, beginning with The Silver Chalice, and carrying on through some of the most famous movies in motion picture history, working with some of the highest-profile directors, actors (including his good friend Robert Redford), writers, and producers. He generously praises his many collaborators and often denigrates his own talents. Luminaries such as John Huston and George Roy Hill have nothing but admiration for his talent and professionalism.
Throughout, he touches on his politics (including work with the Civil Rights movement), his passion for auto racing (which began with the 1969 film Winning), and his many charitable endeavors. An entire chapter addresses his drinking, which he confesses could be heavy and destructive. In time, he gave up hard liquor, but there is a sense of inconclusiveness in his alcohol-related revelations.
Over the years, Newman became less responsive to the outside world, reducing his communication to the fewest
words possible. However, he is forthcoming about his frustrations with the press and fans and his reluctance to sign autographs and pose for pictures.
The final chapter is both revelatory and ambivalent, reflecting a complicated man struggling to find a center. “But I am convinced that this is only a dress rehearsal.” Newman continued to evolve and grow over the remaining years of his life, finding joy in work and family. This book — “part confessional, part self-analysis” — gives an incredible glimpse into the mind and heart of an enigmatic and fascinating individual. Pick up a copy at your favorite bookstore, amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com.
As a tribute to Paul Newman, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host a special event celebrating the publication of The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man on Monday, Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. The evening will feature a screening of Newman's most enduring films, the 1961 sports drama The Hustler followed by a discussion with Paul Newman's daughter Melissa Newman. Tickets are $43 for film and discussion; $25 for the film only. To order, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
The Stony Brook swimming and diving team picked up eight first place finishes en route to a 157-143 win over Siena in Loudonville on Nov. 19.
The Seawolves started the meet off with a bang, securing a first-place finish in the 200 medley relay with a final time of 1:50.20. The relay team was comprised of senior Reagan MacDonald, graduate Jess Salmon, junior Mary Kate Conway and freshman Michelle Vu.
Freshman Clara Armstrong kept the momentum rolling with a win in the 1000 freestyle with a final time of 10:54.66. Conway and sophomore Brenna McLaughlin followed behind with wins in the 200 freestyle and 100 backstroke, respectively.
Senior Maddy Enda touched the wall at 2:11.23 to earn the win in the 200 butterfly and MacDonald clocked in at 2:07.66 for a first-place finish in the 200 backstroke. Junior Sara DiStefano and Vu closed out the day for Stony Brook with first-place finishes in the 3-meter dive and 100 butterfly, respectively.
The Stony Brook women's basketball team was led by a trio of student-athletes who scored double-digits, but it was ulti mately not enough as the squad fell at St. John's University on Nov. 19, 78-52, inside the Carnesecca Arena.
Junior guard Shamarla King registered a team and career-high 13 points after shooting 5-of-9 from the field and 2-of4 from the free-throw line. The Virginia Tech transfer also notched six assists and a rebound in the defeat.
The Seawolves came out with a strong first quarter as sophomore forward Sherese Pittman scored the first six points for the squad, jumping to an early 6-2 lead. The Virginia native finished one point away from her season high with 12 points today and collected four rebounds, three on the offensive side.
After two made free throws by graduate forward Nairimar Vargas-Reyes that would give Stony Brook an 11-9 lead, St. John's would go on an 8-2 run to take a four point lead heading into the second quar ter. Vargas-Reyes collected her first dou ble-double of the season and second of her career, as the forward scored a season-high 12 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
guard Anastasia Warren and Vargas-Reyes. However, another late run by St. John's gave the Red Storm a 35-26 lead heading to half.
(16-28) from the field and 61.5% (8-13) beyond the arc to take the victory, 78-52.
The team is back in action on Dec. 2, when they compete in the ECAC Championships in East Meadow.
MEN'S BASKETBALL
Nov. 29 vs. St. Joseph's LI 6:30 p.m. Dec. 3 vs. Yale 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12 vs. Sacred Heart 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 18 vs. Army West Point 1 p.m.
Jan. 7 vs. Towson 6:30 p.m.
Jan. 12 vs. Drexel 7 p.m.
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
Dec 7 vs. Columbia 7 p.m.
Dec. 21 vs. Maryland East Shore 2 p.m. Dec. 30 vs. William & Mary 6:30 p.m. Jan. 6 vs. UNCW 6:30 p.m.
In the next 15 minutes of play, the Seawolves would hold off the Red Storm by cashing in on three pointers from senior guard Gigi Gonzalez, graduate
Stony Brook put forth a valiant effort after trailing by as many as 17 points, but ulti mately fell to Monmouth, 24-21, in the 2022 season finale at Kessler Stadium on Nov. 19.
The Hawks took a 17-0 lead before Stony Brook was able to get on the board. With 3:55 to play in the first half graduate defen sive back Carthell Flowers-Lloyd stepped in front of a screen and picked off a pass by Monmouth's Enzo Arjona and returned it for a touchdown. Flowers-Lloyd's inter ception was the first of his career and it swung the momentum in Stony Brook's favor heading into the second half.
In the second half, the Red Storm found their rhythm as St. John's shot 57.1%
After Monmouth and Stony Brook traded punts to start the second half, the Seawolves cut the Hawks' lead to 17-14 after a 66-yard touchdown run by redshirt sophomore running back Ross Tallarico with 5:02 to play in the third quarter. Tallarico took the carry up the middle and rushed untouched into the end zone for the longest rush of his career.
The Seawolves continued to apply the pressure on the defensive end and that pressure resulted in a sack-fumble by grad uate defensive end Eric Black. Black blew past Monmouth's offensive line to stripsack Arjona and redshirt junior linebacker Aidan Kaler recovered the fumble.
On Stony Brook's ensuing drive redshirt freshman quarterback Daron Bryden found Tallarico for a five-yard touchdown pitch
and catch to give the Seawolves' a 21-17 lead with 8:17 to play in the game. For Tallarico, it was his second touchdown of the game.
Monmouth took the lead, 24-21, with 7:32 to play when Arjona found Dymere Miller for a 72-yard touchdown and held on to win by that very score.
"I am really proud of how we competed. We've had a lot of adversity in regards to being a better football team; but our kids competed. Offensively, we were not able to generate much throughout the game. The parts kept on plugging, our defense made some stops, and we were able to convert some things. If you're in the game in the fourth quarter, you got to try to find a way to win," said coach Priore on his reaction to Saturday's game.
The team was back in action on Nov. 23 when it took on High Point in its first game of the Puerto Rico Classico. Results were not available as of press time. Visit www.stonybrookathletics.com for tickets and any last minute cancellations.
Content for this page provided by Stony Brook University and printed as a service to our advertiser.
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formedbytheGospel.Westrivetorespondto HolySpirit,nourishedbytheEucharistand fullnessoftheKingdomofGod,guidedbythe areapilgrimcommunityjourneyingtowardthe
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congregationthathasapersonaltouch.We
spiritualjourney.Walkwithus. welcomeallregardlessofwhereyouareonyour
1DykeRoadontheVillageGreen,Setauket Website:www.carolinechurch.net email:office@carolinechurch.net
REVNICKOLASGRIFFITH 631-941-4245
ST.GERARDMAJELLA
ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH 300TerryvilleRoad,PortJeffersonStation 631-473-2900www.stgmajella.org
REV.GREGORYRANNAZZISI,PASTOR
madebycallingtheParishOffice. BaptismandWedding arrangementscanbe andFriday10am-2pm. ThriftShop: Monday-Thursday10am-4pm OfficeHours: Monday-Thursday9am-4:30pm Confessions: Saturday3:45pm-4:45pm WeekdayMass: 9am Sunday8am,10am&12pm Mass: Saturday5pm
ST.JAMESROMAN CATHOLICCHURCH 429Rt.25A,Setauket Phone:631-941-4141Fax:631-751-6607 ParishOfficeemail:
REV.MIKES.EZEATU, ASSOCIATEPASTOR REV.ROBERTSCHECKENBACK, REV.ROBERTKUZNIK,PASTOR www.stjamessetauket.org parish@stjamessetauket.org
SBUHOSPITALCHAPLAIN,INRESIDENCE
OfficeHours:Monday-Friday9amto4pm...
WeekdayMasses:MondaytoSaturday8am Saturday9amto2pm
WeekendMasses:Saturday(Vigil)5pm(Youth)
Sunday8am...9:30am(Family)
Baptisms: contacttheOfficeattheendofthe 11:30am(Choir)
Matrimony: contacttheOfficeatleastnine thirdmonthofpregnancytosetadate
Reconciliation: Saturdays4:00to4:45orby monthsbeforedesireddatetosetadate.
appointment
ST.LOUISDEMONTFORT ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH 75NewYorkAvenue,SoundBeach Parishoffice:631-744-8566; fax631-744-8611
Parishwebsite:
PARISHASSISTANTREV.HENRYVAS REV.FRANCISPIZZARELLI,S.M.M., HANSON,INRESIDENCE ASSOCIATEPASTORREV.MSGR.DONALD PASTORREV.ALPHONSUSIGBOKWE, REV.MSGR.CHRISTOPHERJ.HELLER, www.stlouisdm.org
MissionStatement:Toproclaimthegoodnews Saturday:9amto1pm;ClosedonSunday Wednesday:9amto8pm;Friday:9amto4pm; OfficeHours:Mon.,Tues.,Thurs.:9amto5pm
ofJesusChrist’slovethroughouractiveinvolvementasaparishfamilyinworksof
familysituation.Nomatteryourpracticeoffaith. statusisintheCatholicChurch.Nomatteryour AREWELCOME!Nomatterwhatyourpresent Charity,Faith,Worship,JusticeandMercy.ALL
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WeekdayMasses: St.LouisdeMontfort.
MondaythroughFriday8:30amintheChapel
WeekendMasses:SaturdayVigil:5pm
Baptisms:MostSundaysat1:30pm. Sunday:7:30am;10:00am;12noon.
PleasecontactParishOfficeforanappointment.
Reconciliation:Saturday4-4:45pm
AnointingoftheSick:byrequest. orbyappointment.
HolyMatrimony: ContactParishOfficeatleast
ReligiousEducation:Contact631-744-9515 sixmonthsinadvanceofdesireddate.
ParishOutreach:Contact631-209-0325
Facepainting,Christmasphoto-ops,andmore. CookieDecoration,Writingletterstosoldiers, FreeActivities: Inflatables,Snowballfights, DEC3startingat5PM
MT.SINAICONGREGATIONAL UNITEDCHURCHOFCHRIST 233NorthCountryRoad,Mt.Sinai 631-473-1582 www.msucc.org
Throughourworshipandbyouractionswe timethereafter,withRev.PhilHobson. onourYouTubechannelat10am, andany Wewillcontinuetoprovideour onlineservice suggested.” tothepublic “Masksarenotrequired,butare MountSinaiCongregationalChurchisopen (Weatherpermitting). ThanksgivingService10AM atCedarBeach Thursday,November24th REV.DR.PHILIPHOBSON
life’sjourney,youarewelcomehere.” “Nomatterwhoyouareorwhereyouareon andstayincar andThursdayfrom2:30-4:30pm.Wearamask MiddleIsland,N.Y.OurhoursareWednesday helpthoseinneedat643MiddleCountryRoad, TheIslandHeartFoodPantry continuesto oneanother. strivetoliveoutChrist’smessagetolove
GraceandPeace,Rev.Phil
Ourlittlehistoricchurchonthehillacrossfrom theStonyBrookDuckPond 61MainStreet,StonyBrook Visitourwebsitewww.allsoulsstonybrook.org
HolyEucharistw/music 8:00am&9:30amSundays 5:00pmSaturdays HolyEucharist 10:00amThursdays HealingService family-friendlycommunity LetGodwalkwithyouaspartofour PRIEST-IN-CHARGE
CHRISTEPISCOPALCHURCH 127BarnumAve.,PortJefferson 631-473-0273 email:ccoffice@christchurchportjeff.org www.christchurchportjeff.org
FATHERANTHONYDILORENZO: Churchofficehours:Tues.-Fri.9am-12pm
PRIESTINCHARGE
GODBLESSYOU inourChapel.Masksareoptional. Eucharistsandour10:00WednesdayEucharist Pleasejoinusforour8:00and10:00Sunday
yourjourneyoflifewewanttobepartofit. welcomingcommunity.Whereveryouarein andministry.WeatChristChurchareajoyful, tomakehisloveknowntoallthroughourlives togrowinourrelationshipwithJesusChristand ItisthemissionofthepeopleofChristChurch FatherAnthonyDiLorenzo
ST.JOHN’SEPISCOPALCHURCH “ToknowChristandtomakeHimknown” Rev.DuncanA.Burns,Rector Rev.JamesE.Reiss,Curate Rev.ClaireD.Mis,Deacon
AlexPryrodny,MusicDirector
&Artist-in-Residence
OnMainSt.nexttothelibrary 12ProspectSt,Huntington(631)427-1752
SundayWorship
9:40am-SundaySchool 10:00amRiteIIHolyChoralEucharist 8:00amRiteIHolyEucharist
Thursdays12-1pm-ContemplativeMusic Wednesday,12-1pm-NoondayPrayer WeekdayOpenDoors 9:00amMondaythruFriday MorningPrayeronZoom
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Jewish
NORTHSHOREJEWISHCENTER
385OldTownRd., PortJeffersonStation 631-928-3737 www.northshorejewishcenter.org
RABBIAARONBENSON
CANTORDANIELKRAMER
MARCIEPLATKIN EXECUTIVEDIRECTOR
PRINCIPALHEATHERWELKES
Lutheran-ELCA
HOPELUTHERANCHURCHAND ANCHORNURSERYSCHOOL 46DareRoad,Selden 631-732-2511 EmergencyNumber516-848-5386
REV.DR.RICHARDO.HILL,PASTOR Website:www.hopeluth.com Email:office@hopelutheran.com
DALENEWTON,VICAR
516-848-5386 Inanyemergency,callthepastorat “ShareGod’sMission”page. churchservicesandthroughourwebsite’s Offeringstosupportourministrycanbemadeat amessageonthechurchansweringservice. a.m.-noonorbymakingarrangementsbyleaving food.Also,donationscanbemadefrom11 Thursdaysfrom12:30-2:30p.m.forpickingup OurFoodPantryisopentoeveryoneon website:www.hopeluth.com. Alinkforalltheseservicesisonthe On Sundays theservicesareat9and10:30a.m.
ST.PAUL’SEVANGELICAL LUTHERANCHURCH 309PatchogueRoad PortJeffersonStation 631-473-2236
Ifyouarenotvaccinatedandboostedplease fromMapleAvenue Parkinglotisbehindthechurch.Pleaseenter betweentheservices eachweek withAdultBibleStudybypastor ServicesonSundaysareat8:30and10:30am facebook.com/stpaulselca www.StPaulsLCPJS.org pastor’scellphoneTextorvoice347-423-3623 e-mailpastorpauldowning@yahoo.com
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MESSIAHLUTHERANCHURCH 465PondPath,EastSetauket 631-751-1775www.messiahny.org PASTORNILSNIEMEIER ASSOCIATEPASTORSTEVEUNGER
SundayMorningWorship 8:30am&11:00am
SundaySchool,Adult&YouthBibleStudy
loveuponyou. MayGodkeepyousafeandshineHislightand tocallthechurchtospeaktothem.
Methodist
BETHELAFRICANMETHODIST EPISCOPALCHURCH
33ChristianAve/PO2117,E.Setauket 631-941-3581
REV.LISAWILLIAMSPASTOR
PraiseChoirAndYouthChoir3rdAnd4thFri. GospelChoir: Tues.8Pm Wed.12Noon LectionaryReadingAndPrayer: AdultSundaySchool9:30Am SundayWorship: 10:30Am
6:30PM.
SETAUKETUNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH 160MainStreet,Cornerof25Aand MainStreetEastSetauket631-941-4167 REV.STEVENKIM,PASTOR
Nomatterwhoyouareorwhereyouareonlife’s meetsevery2ndTuesdayeachmonthat1pm MaryMarthaCircle(Women’sMinistry) HolyCommunion 1stSundayofMonth andlivestreamedonFacebook @www.setauketumc.org Servicesarestreamedonline Indoorat10am SundayWorshipService
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FIRSTPRESBYTERIANCHURCH
OFPORTJEFFERSON 107South/MainStreets631-473-0147 Weareanacceptingandcaringpeople whoinviteyou
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despair;andtoseekjusticeforallGod’speople. comforttothoseinneedandhopetothosein visitorsandthecommunityatlarge;toprovide goodnewsofJesusChristwiththecongregation, Jeffersonis,withGod’shelp,tosharethejoy&
SETAUKETPRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
5CarolineAvenue~OntheVillageGreen 631-941-4271 setauketpresbyterian@verizon.net
Allarewelcome! since1660 Celebrating&sharingtheloveofGod
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No holiday season goes by without a new take on that perennial favorite, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Whether traditional or modern, serious or spoof, the story survives and thrives.
view matched by a fantastic score, jubilant dancing (outrageously choreographed by Chloe Arnold), and two lead performances that land every moment make Spirited something special.
Reviews are expected to contain some sense of objectivity. However, having had a long and personal connection to this story, I would be disingenuous, pretending I do not have strong, protective feelings. Over the years, I have viewed every version possible.
Adaptations of A Christmas Carol are most often referenced by their principals. Among the finest of the traditional versions are, of course, Alistair Sim and George C. Scott. The stronger musicals include Albert Finney, Mr. Magoo (voiced by Jim Backus), and the Muppets (with Michael Caine as the miser). Henry Winkler, Cicely Tyson, Vanessa Williams, Robert Guillaume, and Susan Lucci barely scratch the surface of the updated undertakings. Many are fans of Bill Murray’s Scrooged, but I confess to have never been on board with its strident humor and ambivalent ending. I have endured Kelsey Grammar, Tom Arnold, Tori Spelling, and even Barbie.
This leads us to the newest addition, Spirited . Director Sean Anders has co-written the screenplay with John Morris. Composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land, Dear Evan Hansen) provide the score. Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds star. And the film is pure, outrageous joy from beginning to end.
The plot is an absurdist mix of sentimentality and insanity, offering a fresh new vision that surprises and charms for the brisk two hours and ten-minute running time. Jacob Marley (phenomenal Patrick Page, looking and playing like a spritely Christopher Plummer) has managed the afterlife trio of Christmases Past (Sunita
Mani, nailing both the earnest and the deadpan), Present (Ferrell at his best), and Future (voiced hilariously by Tracy Morgan), along with an enormous staff in what looks like a Victorian office meets twenty-first-century bureau.
Each year, one reprehensible human is selected to be studied and redeemed. Research is done; sets are built; plans are made. The world is Alice in Wonderland crossed with M.C. Escher—sort of T he Good Place: Holiday Edition.
In a chance encounter, Present sets his heart on rescuing the seemingly unredeemable Clint Briggs (perfectly wry Ryan Reynolds), a media consultant lacking any conscience. Against Marley’s wishes, Present embarks on the mission to save the unsavable. Spoiler Alert (sort of): Present is
Ebenezer Scrooge. The story then follows the intersection of these two who share a commonality. In essence, the question becomes, “Who redeems the redeemer?”
Ferrell is both genuine and hilarious, showing incredible restraint and real connection. He even succeeds as the traditional Scrooge in a few momentary flashbacks. Reynolds is the perfect foil, edgy and honest, and very funny.
The great Octavia Spencer is Briggs’ quasiBob Cratchit but also becomes the object of Present/Scrooge’s affections. Glimpses of Brigg’s family, including his late sister, Carrie (poignant Andrea Anders), and her daughter, Wren (unassuming and genuine Marlow Barkley), build background.
All these pieces are standard Christmas Carol tropes. But the zany, hyper-meta
From the opening (“That Christmas Morning Feelin’”) to Reynold’s psychotic call to commerce (“Bringin’ Back Christmas”) to the greatest send-up of “Consider Yourself” since Monty Python’s “Every Sperm Is Sacred” (“Good Afternoon”), the film’s musical sequences simultaneously celebrate and satirize. Spencer finds the right blend of humor and heartache in “The View from Here.” While none of the leads are powerhouse singers, the uniformly pleasant voices hit the right vocal and emotional notes.
Anders succeeds on every level as director and adaptor, supported by a production team that delivers strong visuals and whimsical designs. He makes the central message—our choices make us who we are—feel earned rather than saccharine. In addition to a range of Dickens Easter Eggs, the film contains one of the greatest cameos seen in years.
Two more Christmas Carols will be arriving this season. A Christmas Karen takes a comedic look, with a demanding woman coming to terms with her sense of entitlement. Netflix offers the animated Scrooge: A Christmas Carol, adapted from the 1970 film. With a star-studded cast, Luke Evans voices Scrooge. Whether they become valued additions to the canon remains to be seen. In the meantime, we have Spirited to keep us warm and happy.
I suspect many will disagree with this glowing assessment and see Spirited as one big “Bah, humbug.” As a good friend always said, “That’s why refrigerators come in different colors.” I went into this movie skeptical, dubious, and with my quill sharpened. But, like Scrooge, I left in a giddy state of Christmas euphoria.
Rated PG-13, Spirited is currently playing in local theatres as well as on Apple TV+.
The 19th annual Girl Scouts Holiday Light Show and Enchanted Forest show returns to Smith Point County Park from Nov. 26 to Dec. 30. All proceeds from the drivethrough show benefit Girl Scout programs & families across Long Island. For more information, visit www.holidaylightshow. org or call 543-6622.
Miller Avenue School, 3 Miller Ave., Shoreham will host the annual ShorehamWading River Thanksgiving Foot Races at 8 a.m. with a 5k, 5-mile and 1-mile runs for various ages. Proceeds benefit scholarships. Fee is $15 in advance, $20 race day. Call 8218116 or visit www.swrschools.org.
The 15th annual Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s 5k Turkey Trot at Nissequogue River State Park, 799 St. Johnland Road, Kings Park will kick off with a Fun Run for Kids at 8:30 a.m. followed by the Turkey Trot at 9 a.m. Enjoy free hot chocolate, coffee and food and activities for the kids. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers. Entry fee is $24 in advance, $30 day of race, $10 Fun Run. To register, visit www.ourstatepark.com.
American Legion Hall, 1 Mill Dam Rd., Halesite will host the Townwide Fund of Huntington’s 4-mile Thanksgiving Day Run with a Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. and 4k Run at 9 a.m. Fees are $30 in advance, $45 day of race, $15 fun run. Call 629-4950 visit www. townwidefund.org.
Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Country Parlor Holiday Folk Art & Gift Show on Nov. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Nov. 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The historic Naugles Barn is transformed into a winter wonderland with handmade items by local artisans and craftspeople including rustic Santas and tree ornaments, holiday home decor and gifts, baskets, jewelry, handmade pottery pieces, plus stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. Free admission. Call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.
Join the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook for a Black Friday Festival from 2 to 4 p.m. Featuring a petting zoo, live music by Burke & Brenda, caroling
by the Celestrial Singers and Black Friday deals all day long. Call 751-2244.
The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown celebrates the holiday season with Suffolk County’s FIRST immersive Winter Lantern Festival tonight, Nov. 26 and 27 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 8, 2023. The walk-through holiday light show will feature lanterns and
displays in the shape of flowers, mushrooms, farm animals, dinosaurs and many more, all handmade by artisans with decades of dedication to their craft. Be ready for photo ops with friends and family, as this will be an unforgettable experience! Tickets are $22 per person, $12 ages 3 to 12. To order, visit https://www.showclix.com/tickets/ suffolk-winter-lantern-festival. For more information, call 265-6768.
The annual Northport Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Northport Village Park. Northport Mayor Donna Koch will have special guests to assist her in lighting the tree. The event will feature caroling from the Northport Chorale, Santa arriving with the Northport Volunteer Fire Department, and free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Copenhagen Bakery, Shipwreck Diner, and Northport Feed & Grain. Call 754-3905.
Friday Night Face Off, Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door - cash only. Call 9289100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Country Parlor Holiday Show
See Nov. 25 listing.
Winter Lantern Festival
See Nov. 25 listing.
Registration is currently underway for the annual Mount Sinai Turkey Trot 5k at Mount Sinai High school, 110 N. Country Rd., Mount Sinai starting at 9 a.m. Fee is $25 in advance, $30 on race day. Kids can take part in a Fun Run starting at 8:30 a.m. for $10 in advance, $15 on race day. To register, visit www.runsignup.com. For more information, call 631-870-2500.
The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off its third annual holiday event, Bright Lights: Celebrate the Season, tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. with a tree lighting in the mansion courtyard at 6 p.m. Thousands of warmwhite lights will create holiday magic inside and outside the Mansion and illuminate trees, wreaths, garlands, guest rooms, walkways, and the Vanderbilt Library. The event will include Candlelight Tours of the decorated Vanderbilt Mansion, visits with Santa and friends in his workshop, a children’s scavenger hunt, and a 15-minute Holiday Laser show in the Reichert Planetarium. The event continues Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3-18, and on Dec. 22. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children ages 12 and under at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
The 12th annual Huntington “Holiday Express” Electric Light Parade kicks off at 5 p.m. from the Big H Shopping Center on
New York Avenue and will proceed north to Main Street and then west on Main Street to West Neck Road led by grand marshal Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti followed by a visit with Santa, live entertainment, and Christmas Tree Lighting on Wall Street. Call 351-3000.
Something *fragile* and exciting is coming!
The iconic leg lamp lighting ceremony in homage to A Christmas Story returns to the old Northport Hardware store location, currently The Firefly Artists, 90 Main Street, Northport at 6:30 p.m. Former Mayor Doll will have the honor of lighting the leg. For more information, call 754-3905.
Winter
See Nov. 25 listing.
East Wind Long Island, Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Long Island Bridal Expo Super Show form 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a fashion show features a variety of wedding gowns and dresses from top designers, food tastings courtesy of East Wind, live DJ Showcase and meet professionals in photography, videography, wedding gowns, flowers, limousines, tuxedos, invitations, cakes, bands, hair salon and spa’s, photo booths, lighting, and decorating. Tickets $10 with advanced Registration. $20 at the Door. Visit www.eastwindlongisland.com.
Santa Claus will be the star in this annual parade along Main Street in Port Jefferson with vintage cars, civic groups and floats. Parade starts at the Long Island Train Station on Main Street at 3 p.m., then makes it way down on Main Street, going right onto East Broadway and finishes at the Port Jefferson Village Center at 101A East Broadway. Santa will be on the first floor for photo opportunities. There will be a children’s singing choir and photo ops with ‘Snow Princesses.’Sponsored by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Call 473-1414.
No events listed for this day.
No events listed for this day.
Join Comsewogue Public Library in Port Jefferson Station for a program titled The Dogs of Chernobyl at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
Animal behaviorist Stephan Quant will tell a story of hope and resilience about the dogs descended from pets left behind after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986. To register, call 928-1212 or visit www.cplib. org/DogsChernobyl.
The Town of Smithtown will hold its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall, 99 West Main St., Smithtown from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy live music, school district students’ performances, treats and a special visit from Santa Claus! A particular spot will be set up to receive non-perishable food items as a donation for the Smithtown Pantry. Call 360-7512.
A beloved annual tradition, the Holiday Lighting of the Big Duck, located at 1012 New York State Route 24 in Flanders, will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Included in the festivities are a visit from Quackerjack, the Long Island Ducks’ baseball team mascot, duck carols led by students from the Riverhead Middle School show choir, refreshments and the ever-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus by fire truck. Call 852-3377.
Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor in celebrating the village’s past with a Bedlam Street Bash fundraiser at 7 p.m. celebrating the rowdy history of Cold Spring Harbor’s Main Street, once nicknamed Bedlam Street. Guests will enjoy delicious bites from local restaurants, rum tastings, historic then & now presentations with historian Robert Hughes, a presentation about the history of rum with Dr. Jennifer Anderson, craft-making, scavenger hunt and live music. Advance tickets are $40 per person, $50 at the door. Call 367-3418 or visit www. cshwhalingmuseum.org.
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes David Foster and Katherine McPhee to the Mian Stage for a performance of The Kat & Dave Show at 7 p.m. Join them for an intimate evening of the hits that have defined their incredible careers. Tickets range from $49 to $100. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www. stallercenter.com.
In honor of its 70th anniversary, Singin in the Rain will be screened at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington
on Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. with new digital restoration and an introduction by Philip Harwood. Gene Kelly shines as silentmovie idol Don Lockwood, whose career (and leading lady, hilariously played by Jean Hagen) is imperiled by the coming of sound – until he hooks up with lovely ingenue Debbie Reynolds. The brilliant supporting cast includes Donald O’Connor, Millard Mitchell, Douglas Fowley and the great Cyd Charisse, whose long-legged “Broadway Melody” ballet with Kelly nearly steals the show! Tickets are $15 Visit www. cinemaartscentre.org.
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College presents Noises Off by Michael Frayn at the Shea Theater, Islip Arts Building, 533 College Road, Selden on Nov. 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 27 at 2 p.m. Called the funniest farce ever written, Noises Off presents a manic menagerie of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called Nothing’s On. *Mature Content* General admission: $14, Veterans and students 16 years of age or younger: $10, Suffolk students with current ID get one free ticket. To order, visit https://sunysuffolk. edu/spotlight or call 451-4163. ‘A Christmas Carol’ “I will honor Christmas in my heart...” Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for its 38th annual production of A Christmas Carol in all of its thrills, music, joy, and spirit. from Nov. 12 to Dec. 30. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. $20 tickets in November; December tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
The John W. Engeman Theater presents A Christmas Story, The Musical from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31. Nine-year-old Ralphie Parker only wants one thing for Christmas an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Rebuffed at every turn, Ralphie plots numerous schemes to achieve his desperate desire for the coveted BB gun. Based on the beloved movie, A Christmas Story, The Musical is the perfect holiday gift for the entire family! Tickets range from $80 to $85. To order, call 2612900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B17.
The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown kicks off the holiday season with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. from Nov. 19 to Jan. 22 with a
special sensory performance on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.
A perennial favorite, Seiskaya Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts Main Stage, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook for five performances from Dec. 17 to 19. The cast will be led by Seiskaya Ballet’s award winning Principal Dancer Maya Butkevich and 1st Soloists Vivian Ye, Madeleine Martufi, Nina Zhang and Kaede Urso. Tickets range from $34 to $40. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www. stallercenter.com.
The Ministrel Players will present their annual holiday production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Trinity Episcopal Church’s Houghton Hall, 130 Main St., Northport on Dec. 9 and 10 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 11 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, email tickets.minstrelplayers@ gmail.com.
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Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport seeks vendors for its annual St. Nicholas Bazaar on Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 631-261-7670 for further details.
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Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook seeks craft vendors for its Holiday Night Market on Dec. 10 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call 631-588-5024.
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Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its first annual Three Village Winter Market, an outdoor holiday shopping experience, on Dec. 10 and 11 from 11 to 4 p.m. $100 for one day or $150 for both. Call 631-751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.
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.
This week's shelter pet is Luke, a fox hound mix waiting at the Smithtown Animal Shelter for his furever home.
This lovely boy was a pandemic puppy, adopted out of boredom without the effort or knowledge needed to make him a healthy and happy dog. Luke has had no socialization and lived in a chaotic environment where he spent most of his time locked away on his own. He is a sweet boy that needs a patient home that can socialize and expose him to the world. He may have food aggression with other
animals and he shows no interest in other animals at the shelter except concern.
If you would like to meet Luke, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting.
The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown hosts a family program, Lovely Leaves, on Nov. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Join them for a day of autumn leaf inspired arts and crafts. Begin with a short nature walk to identify some common fall leaves in the park before heading back inside to create a variety of autumn souvenirs. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 265-1054.
The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a drop-in Family Wampum workshop on Nov. 26 from 1 to 3 p.m. Did you know some of the finest Wampum beads were historically created from the shells often found along Long Island’s coasts? Discover this ancient craft and learn what it continues to mean to Indigenous Long Islanders. Create a wampum-style beaded accessory of your own to keep. Recommended for ages 8+; younger with adult help. Cost is admission fee plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418.
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program titled Tracks & Traces on Dec. 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with their parents will connect with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. Advance registration required by calling 269-5351.
The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown kicks off the holiday season with Disney's Beauty and the Beast Jr. from Nov. 19 to Jan. 22 with a special sensory performance on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents the holiday musical Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 19 to Dec. 30 with
a sensory sensitive performance on Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As our littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. Tickets are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree. com. Read review on page B27.
A perennial favorite, Frosty returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. from Nov. 26 to Dec. 24 and daily from Dec. 26 to 31. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of The Last Unicorn on Nov. 27 at noon. In this animated musical, the villainous King Haggard (Christopher Lee) plots to destroy all the world's unicorns. When a young unicorn (Mia Farrow) learns that she's in danger she leaves the safety of her protected forest and enlists the help of Schmendrick the Sorcerer (Alan Arkin). Together, they embark on a long and dangerous journey with one goal: to defeat King Haggard and save the unicorns from extinction. Rated G. $5 children, $12 adults. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
The Miller PlaceMount Sinai Historical Society presents A Visit with Postman Pete on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Children are invited to bring their pre-written letters for Santa to the old Miller Place Post Office at 75 North Country Road where Postman Pete will bundle the letters for the North Pole! Then visit a vintage fire truck and enjoy crafts, story time, raffles and refreshments inside the Miller House. $12 per child. Pre-registration is required by visiting PostmanPete2022.eventbrite.com by Nov. 30. For additional information, please contact the Society at 631-476-5742.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, especially at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson. While Scrooge undergoes a transformation on the Main Stage with A Christmas Carol, Barnaby the Elf is busy making sure all the Christmas presents are delivered on time in the adorable children's musical, Barnaby Saves Christmas. The show opened last Saturday and runs through Dec. 30.
Blizzard's fawn Franklynne (Samantha Fierro) to find Santa and “save Christmas.”
Written over 18 years ago by Douglas Quattrock and Jeffrey Sanzel with music and lyrics by Quattrock, it remains as relevant as ever with the ultimate message that "every day is a golden opportunity to be better than you used to be."
It's Christmas Eve and Santa's workshop at the North Pole is a flurry of activity. Head elf Sam (Josie McSwane) and fellow elves Blizzard (Michelle LaBozzetta) and Crystal (Kaitlyn Jehle) are busy putting the final touches on the Christmas presents and loading them on the sleigh. A fourth elf, Barnaby (Ryan Worrell), is the newest trainee and has been given one task by Santa (Sean Amato) — to make a little stuffed bear with dark blue pants, buckles on his shoes and a bright yellow vest.
When it’s time to deliver the presents to all the good little girls and boys, Barnaby is left behind with Mrs. Claus (Danielle Pafundi). He soon realizes that Santa has left the stuffed bear behind and convinces
On their adventure they crash land on the roof of the house of Sarah (Danielle Pafundi) and her nephew Andrew (Sean Amato) and learn all about Hanukkah and the Festival of Lights. They also come across S.B. (spoiled brat) Dombulbury (Steven Uihlein), a Scrooge in his own right who has stuffed up all the chimneys with coal with his partner in crime Irving (Jason Furnari), in order to ruin Christmas and has hypnotized Crystal and Blizzard to help him. With the help of his friends, Barnaby will save the day but just wait until you see how!
Directed by Sanzel, the entire cast does an incredible job telling this heartwarming story. The wonderful songs, accompanied on piano by Quattrock, are just lovely, with special mention to Worrell's solo “Still With a Ribbon on Top,” Pafundi's solo "Miracles" and Amato's solo “Within Our Hearts.”
Gorgeous costumes that sparkle and shine for the holidays by Jason Allyn, the incredible lighting by Steven Uihlein and the great choreography by Sari Feldman tie it all together with a beautiful holiday bow. I can think of 100 reasons to go see this show but I will only give the first — it is an unforgettable experience the entire family will love. Elf and reindeer souvenirs will be sold before the show and during intermission and the entire cast will be in the lobby after the show for photos.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Barnaby Saves Christmas on Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 28, 29 and 20 at 11 a.m. Children's theater continues with The House That Jack Built from Jan. 21 to Feb. 4, 2023 and Dorothy's Adventures in Oz from Feb. 22 to March 18, 2023. All seats are only $10. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www. theatrethree.com.
