Arts & Lifestyles - December 16, 2021 by TBR News Media

ARTS&LIFESTYLES TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA ◆ DECEMBER 16, 2021

Theatre Talk with the stars of SPAC's Frozen Jr. See story on page B23

Lorelai Mucciolo and Leah Kelly Photo by Jackie St. Louis/SPAC

ALSO: Dancing Past the Light book review B13 ◆ Photo of the Week B14 ◆ Weekly Calendar of Events B16 ◆ SBU Sports B21

PAGE B2 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Still experiencing symptoms after a COVID-19 diagnosis? OUR EXPERT ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS Sritha Rajupet, MD, MPH Director, Population-Based Health Initiatives, Department of Family, Population & Preventive Medicine Primary Care Lead, Post-COVID Clinic, Stony Brook Medicine

In response to the growing healthcare needs of New Yorkers who have contracted COVID-19, Stony Brook Medicine opened the first Post-COVID Clinic on Long Island in November 2020. Led by Dr. Sritha Rajupet, the Post-COVID Clinic provides specialized care to patients who have previously had a COVID-19 infection and are still experiencing symptoms. Here, Dr. Rajupet shares more information about the Clinic and Post COVID care.

How does our Post-COVID Clinic differ from others in the region, or country? We take a holistic approach to patient care, addressing physical and emotional health as well as social well-being. Should a patient at the PostCOVID Clinic need to see additional providers, we are often able to accommodate them because we are located in Stony Brook Medicine’s Advanced Specialty Care facility in Commack, which houses over 30 specialties. Patients can receive a wide-range of care in one location and often times in one day – setting us apart from similar clinics whose patients may have to travel to multiple locations in order to receive proper treatment and follow-up care.

What specialties and services are treated at the Post-COVID Clinic? The Clinic’s physicians have a unique depth of knowledge and experience when it comes to appropriate and effective Post COVID follow-up care, including: • Cardiology • Echocardiography • Imaging • Infectious Diseases • Internal Medicine

of positive COVID tests/ history of COVID antibodies and a history of chronic symptoms. If you are unsure if you meet eligibility criteria, please give the Clinic a call and our care team would be happy to assist you.

What does the future look like for the Clinic and COVID-19 treatments? Right now, there is still so much to learn about Post COVID, or PASC, but our goal is to improve your quality of life. We strive to provide a safe haven for patients to share their COVID story while also providing up to date information regarding symptom management and research opportunities.

STONY BROOK MEDICINE’S COVID-19 SUPPORT GROUP Open to anyone, especially those with a previous diagnosis, looking for an outlet to discuss the emotional effects of COVID-19. Thursdays, 6 to 7 pm | Online Led by Jenna Palladino, PsyD For more information, call (631) 632-2428.

• Laboratory Services

What is ‘Post COVID’ and how is it detected?

• Mental Health Services

Post COVID, also known as Post Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV-2 (PASC), can occur in 10 to 30 percent of those affected by COVID-19. The definition of Post COVID is still evolving. The CDC considers it to be a wide range of new, emerging or ongoing health problems that people can experience four or more weeks after being first infected with COVID-19. Some associated symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, tiredness or fatigue, difficulty concentrating, headache, joint or muscle pain, sleep problems, mood changes, or changes in smell or taste.

• Neurology

• Nephrology • Pulmonary • Pulmonary Function Testing • Stress Test Lab

To learn more about the Post-COVID Clinic, visit stonybrookmedicine.edu/covidclinic or call (631) 638-0597.

To learn more about Advanced Specialty Care, visit stonybrookmedicine.edu/advancedspecialtycare or call (631) 638-0597.

• Vascular Care

Who can use the Clinic? All residents in New York State, not just patients of Stony Brook Medicine can use the Clinic, but must meet the following eligibility criteria: have had a previous clinical diagnosis of COVID-19 or a history

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. 21100489H

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COMMUNITY NEWS

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B3

Seiskaya Ballet principal Lara Caraiani and guest artist Blake Krapels will dazzle when they perform the elegant Sugar Plum Pas de Deux.

Seiskaya's Nutcracker returns for the holidays creative artist Matt Targon. Choreographed by celebrated Russian-born Valia Seiskaya, this acclaimed production is imbued with bravura dancing, energy and endearing charisma. The cast will be led by BalletX standout, guest artist, Blake Krapels (Cavalier) plus Seiskaya Ballet's award winning Principal Dancers Lara Caraiani, Kyra Allgaier, Rachel Bland and Maya Butkevich. Performances will be held on Thursday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 19 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults, $34 children and seniors and $30 for groups of 20 or more at the Staller Center Box Office at 631-632-ARTS and at www.nutcrackerballet. com. (Attended box office hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and two hours prior to all performances. Online seat selection is available for all shows.)

In this edition: Book Review ..........................................B13 Business News ........................................ B9 Calendar .................................................B16 Cooking Cove .......................................B15 Crossword Puzzle/Sudoku ...............B12 Financial Focus ....................................B10 Horoscopes ............................................B15 Kids Korner ............................................B22

Making Democracy Work ................... B4 Medical Compass ................................. B7 Photo of the Week ..............................B14 Power of 3 ............................................... B5 Religious Directory .............................B18 Shelter Pet of the Week ....................... B4 SBU Sports .............................................B21 Theatre Talk ...........................................B23

Email your community, business, health, class reunions and calendar listings to leisure@tbrnewspapers.com.

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The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook OFFERS

Tai Chi -Yoga Essentrics Stretch

The day you start moving ... is the day you stop aging.

We are happy to offer classes at ALL levels. Patient teachers in a peaceful environment. • Our Kripalu Yoga on Zoom – is a VERY gentle yoga. All levels welcome.

• Essentrics As seen on PBS – Your first class is free (new students only) Zoom or in person classes Certified Instructor Kay Aparo • Tai Chi For Health beginner and

intermediate classes available.

Perfect for people with arthritis, joint problems and balance issues. This form of Tai Chi is recommended by: • The Arthritis Foundation • The Center for Disease Control Start • The National Council on Aging the New Year right Email or call for schedules and pricing reduction with the perfect for second registered class Tai Chi Class for you! Linda Mikell edlinmik9@gmail.com

at 631-543-0337 or UUF 631-751-0297

All classes held at the Unitarian Fellowship at Stony Brook 380 Nicolls Rd, East Setauket

The Seiskaya Ballet’s The Nutcracker, a perennial holiday favorite on Long Island, returns to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook for a six-performance run from Dec. 16 to 19. This classical ballet rendition has earned praise from critics and audiences alike. Hailed as Long Island’s most lavish “Nutcracker,” the Seiskaya Ballet production of the classic holiday ballet is a truly international collaboration beginning with Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s most famous score. Sets and several costumes were designed by Poland’s Margaret Piotrowska whose highly respected work in Polish television and stage productions has garnered wide praise. Directed by founder Joseph Forbes, scenery was executed by Scenic Art Studios which has been credited with painting over 300 Broadway shows. The imaginative and unusual sculptures utilized in the Seiskaya Ballet’s production were the brainchild of

PAGE B4 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

MAKING DEMOCRACY WORK

SHELTER PET OF THE WEEK Meet Linx!

Be the change to slow climate change

BY SUSAN WILSON

This week's shelter pet is Linx, a handsome 2 to 3-year-old male German Shepherd who is currently up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. Sweet Linx was taken in as a stray and never claimed. He is well mannered and housebroken but needs a GSD experienced owner. He is ball and stick obsessed and loves to play. Linx is a good natured dog that needs a strong Alpha leader to follow and will only be happy in a home that can keep him physically AND mentally stimulated. He loves to combine play and learning. Linx would do best in an adult only home where he is the only pet. If you would like to meet Linx, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting. Photos from Smithtown Animal Shelter The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Shelter operating hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). Call 631-360-7575 or visit www.smithtownanimalshelter.com.

2021

Year in Review

Commemorative Issue

Published: Thursday, January 6, 2022 Photos of our neighbors, communities, and significant events that shaped our year. Our first issue of the New Year will be a keepsake!

✴ RESERVE AD SPACE NOW! ✴

631.751.7744 for details now!

✴ TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA ✴ 185 Route 25A • PO Box 707 • Setauket, NY 11733 (631) 751–7744 • tbrnewsmedia.com

Call your representative at

Carbon emissions affect the planet significantly, causing global warming and ultimately climate change. This warming causes extreme weather events like tropical storms, wildfires, severe droughts, melting of the polar ice caps, heat waves, rising sea levels and the disturbance of animals’ natural habitat. Greenhouse gases, including the carboncontaining gases carbon dioxide and methane, are emitted through the burning of fossil fuels, land clearance and the production and consumption of food, manufactured goods, materials, wood, roads, buildings, transportation and other services. We all want a healthier planet, a place that will continue on for generations to come. You may wonder how you can make a difference in view of the enormity of the problem. The amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere because of our own individual energy needs is called our "carbon footprint." It is our personal impact on the environment. Did you know that the U.N. has found that 2/3 of all greenhouse gases originate from decisions made on the household level? Our decisions can help to rapidly transform our economies and lifestyles off fossil fuels and on to clean and green. Learn how your actions matter in ways to cut emissions, address equity issues and protect and restore ecosystems. Change can become easier when individuals or small groups of people concentrate on their own personal change and share their ideas and accomplishments with others. Look at the success of the Carbon CREW project developed by Drawdown East End and supported by the League of Women Voters. The Carbon CREW Project brings together small teams of climate-friendly folks to plan, proclaim and live a 50% carbon reduction lifestyle! CREW represents both the team approach and is the acronym for Carbon Reduction for Earth Wellbeing. Using 2040: A Handbook for the Regeneration by Damon Gameau, based on Project Drawdown https://drawdown.org/, guides lead participants in creating Personal Carbon Action Plans and in replicating the CREW strategy for exponential growth, peer to peer accountability and overall 50% carbon reduction by 2030. When the CREW sessions are over, groups stay in touch to confirm progress and provide ongoing support. Despite our best intentions and our most persuasive approaches a person will not change just because we say they should. The only thing we can change is how we connect and relate to other people. This doesn't mean that we shouldn’t offer help, guidance, or opinion when asked to. So, if you are finding

changing other people difficult, shift your focus to changing you. You can do your part to reverse global warming. Start by finding out your personal impact on the environment by checking your Carbon Footprint on this website: https:// www3.epa.gov/carbon-footprint-calculator/. The calculator estimates your footprint in three areas: home energy, transportation and waste. Everyone's carbon footprint is different depending on their location, habits, and personal choices. Develop a Personal Carbon Action Plan which acknowledges all the good earth saving things you already do. Decide what changes you can make now. Set long term goals such as the purchase of a Hybrid or electric vehicle or solar panels. Here are some things you can do immediately to lower your carbon footprint and change your impact on the environment. 1. Use cold water for laundry, make your own fabric softener, purchase detergent sheets instead of products in bulky nonrecyclable containers, air dry clothes whenever possible 2. Stop buying single use plastic products. 3. Always use a re-usable bag when shopping. 4. Schedule your thermostat. 5. Become aware of how often you use your car — combine trips. 6. Learn to compost or join a community composting group. 7. Join a Carbon CREW in your area. 8. Support and become active in environmental groups in your area. 9. Turn each new positive change into automatic good habits and share your success with everyone you know. Susan Wilson is president of the League of Women Voters of the Hamptons, Shelter Island and the North Fork and representative to the board of the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County, a nonprofit nonpartisan organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Visit www. lwv-suffolkcounty.org or call 631-862-6860.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B5

KNOWLEDGE SEEKERS

SBU’s Ali Khosronejad scores $2 mln to study water turbines Harnessing the Technology of our Research Giants

‘If we can effectively harness the energy from moving waters in our national waterways alone, it could provide enough energy to power the whole country.’

SPOTLIGHTING DISCOVERIES AT (1) COLD SPRING HARBOR LAB (2) STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY & (3) BROOKHAVEN NATIONAL LAB

— ALI KHOSRONEJAD BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

While wind is nice and effective, moving water is even more promising, especially in the future of alternative energies. That’s because water is almost 1,000 times more dense than air, which means that the movement of the wet stuff due to tides or storms could produce a considerable amount of energy. Indeed, “if we can effectively harness the energy from moving waters in our national waterways alone, it could provide enough energy to power the whole country,” said Ali Khosronejad, Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Stony Brook University. Khosronejad recently received $2 million as part of a $9.7 million four-year Department of Energy grant to study and develop ways to turn the movement of water into usable energy. “I’m very optimistic about the future of this” approach, he said. The DOE funds, which will involve a collaboration with East Carolina University, the University of New Hampshire, and Lehigh University, is a part of the new Atlantic Marine Energy Center, for which Khosronejad is a co-director. The funds at Stony Brook will support hiring researchers at numerous levels, from post doctoral scientists, to graduate students and undergraduates. The money will also support adding new computer modules and expanding storage at the supercomputer. Stony Brook will also tap into these funds to enable travel for these new hires, to help them interact in person with their collaborators from other universities.

Left, Ali Khosronejad Photo from SBU; above, this image depicts simulated turbulence in a waterway where a virtual tidal farm can be installed. The Stony Brook research team will use such simulations to investigate potential renewable ocean energy options. Image from Ali Khosronejad

The combined effort at these academic centers will be dedicated to researching ocean energy technology, education and outreach. Researchers will work in the field, the laboratory and with computers on these ocean energy projects. They will seek to use wave energy and tidal energy conversion through such efforts as wave energy converters and tidal turbine farms. The wave-energy converter floats on the seawater surface and uses the energy from the up and down motion of the water surface to produce electrical energy. Researchers around the world are working to improve the efficiency of tidal turbine farms. Khosronejad described the effort as being in its infancy. A good portion of the current project involves finding ways to optimize the positioning and layout of turbines in tidal farms. In his team, Khosronejad will work on the development of new artificial intelligence approaches to optimize the positioning and layout of turbines in tidal farms.

Stony Brook’s role in this project will involve working with computers. In his research group, Khosronejad will work with supercomputers. His effort involves working to develop high-fidelity mathematical models that can address sediment transport and sediment-laden flows in tidal farms. Scientists at the University of New Hampshire and ECU are involved in addressing environmental concerns. In the Department of Electrical Engineering at Stony Brook, co-principal investigators Fang Luo, Associate Professor and Peng Zhang, Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering will work with computers and laboratories for micro-grid software and hardware research, respectively. Working with Lehigh University, Khosronejad is doing high fidelity simulations, to replicate what researchers in the field at the University of New Hampshire and the Coastal Studies Institute at ECU are studying. “We validate and develop artificial intelligence for design optimization of these tidal farms,” Khosronejad explained. The goal is to optimize the design of hydrokinetic turbines in estuaries and coastal areas that can create tidal farms. The collaboration will coordinate with the National Renewable

Energy Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratories, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, European Marine Energy Centre and Old Dominion University. The first year of the project involves hiring, training graduates and undergraduates, setting up the foundation, and beginning the infrastructure upgrade. “The training part is important,” Khosronejad said. “This will be the next workforce. The infrastructure will stay there for the next 10 years” so the university can use it in a host of other projects. Khosronejad is encouraged by the financial commitment from the Department of Energy. “They understand how important it is, which is why they are investing a lot in this,” he said. Some of these tidal farms are already working in the East River, between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island.

Wind turbines

At the same time, Khosronejad is continuing a wind turbine project he started with Fotis Sotiropoulos, the former dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Stony Brook who is now Provost at Virginia Commonwealth University. Khosronejad is now the principal investigator on that $1.1 million project and is continuing to work with Sotiropoulos, who

officially left the project but is still volunteering to participate in its research activities. The scientists are working on how to use artificial intelligence to enhance the design of wind turbines. Computer programs can alter the angle of the blades for the offshore wind farms where they attempt to use a control system to pitch the blades automatically to reduce the wind load during highly turbulent wind flows. Changing the angle of attack of the blade can lower the loads and save money that would otherwise go to repairing blades that cracked or developed weaknesses amid strong winds, Khosronejad said. The researchers presented their results at the American Physical Society meeting in Phoenix just before Thanksgiving. The researchers are trying to balance between using the turbine to generate energy and preventing the force of the winds from damaging the system. When wind speeds are up to 25 miles per hour, the system uses the full power of the wind to maximize energy production. At speeds above that, the turbulent wind can damage the rotor and gearbox. The blades are pitched to reduce the angular velocity, which is known as self-preservation mode. At speeds over 55 miles per hour, the turbine stops working to produce no energy and avoid significant damage to the rotors and gearbox. Generally, such federal research projects involve sharing results publicly and with the industry sector. The goal is to share science that enables the production of reliable energy.

PAGE B6 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

EXCITING UPDATE:

Two of my research studies were recently published by the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine showing that my whole food plant based LIFE diet reduces inflammation, the root of many chronic diseases.

HELPING YOU NAVIGATE TO OPTIMAL HEALTH

David Dunaief, M.D. Integrative Medicine

• A Whole Body Approach •

We Are Accepting

NEW PATIENTS

I am open for In-Person Appointments, taking all necessary precautions with masks, meticulous disinfecting, and air purifiers with HEPA filters. I am also still offering Zoom and phone appointments.

Reversing, Preventing &Treating Chronic Disease and Managing Weight by Connecting Conventional Medicine with Lifestyle Modifications

David Dunaief, M.D.

Clinician, Researcher, Author and Speaker

Our Philosophy is simple. We believe wellness is derived through nutritional medicine and lifestyle interventions that prevent and treat chronic diseases. Medications have their place - and in some cases can be lifesaving. However, there’s no medication without side effects. The goal should be to limit the need for medications - or minimize the number of medications you take on a regular basis. You are not limited by your genes. Fortunately, most diseases are based primarily on epigenetics, which are environmental influences, and not on genetics. Epigenetics literally means above or around the gene. In epigenetics, lifestyle choices impact gene expression. Just because your first degree relatives may have had a disease, you are not predestined to follow suit. We are specialists who will partner with your primary care physician. A standard medical education does not integrate enough nutritional medicine and other lifestyle interventions. We bridge that gap.

We use evidence-based medicine to guide our decision-making. The amount of research related to nutrition and other lifestyle issues continues to grow rapidly, with many studies showing significant beneficial effects on health. We treat each patient as an individual. We will work with you to develop a plan that allows you to take a proactive role in managing your own health. The health outcomes are worth the effort. Is disease reversal possible? Absolutely! Study evidence has found this to be true, and many of our patients have experienced reversal of diabetes, autoimmune disorders, migraines, and cardiovascular disease, just to mention a few. In many cases, because of their exceptional results, our patients have been able to reduce or eliminate their medications.

Dr. Dunaief was also recently published in The New York Times and appeared on NBC, News 12 Long Island and News 12 Brooklyn.

Benefits of Our Approach: Treat/reverse the causes of disease, not just symptoms Minimize or eliminate dependence on medications Reduce pain and inflammation Improve weight management, and more

Read more common questions and answers on medicalcompassmd.com. Dr. Dunaief has written over 2,000 medical research articles that have been published in Times Beacon Record Newspapers.

We invite you to tune in to our new weekly Medical Compass health video at tbrnewsmedia.com

NE W L OC AT ION!

47 Route 25A, Setauket NY ©61780

(Across From Convenience Drive-thru)

631.675.2888

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drdunaief@medicalcompassmd.com Visit our website www.medicalcompassmd.com

Dr. Dunaief builds a customized plan for each patient - he knows that “no body is the same.”

“Dr. Dunaief is a knowledgeable, dedicated and compassionate Integrative Medicine clinician, researcher and speaker.” – Joel Fuhrman, M.D., author of six New York Times best sellers, including Eat to Live.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B7

MEDICAL COMPASS

NEWS AROUND TOWN

GET ON YOUR FEET!

If you were tuning into television in the U.S. for the first time, you would imagine we were a society of exercisers. Sports is big business. Ads for workout equipment, sneakers, and athletic clothing abound. And yet, many of us don’t exercise even the minimum to maintain good physical and mental health through adulthood. As kids, many of us tried to get out of gym class, and as BY DAVID DUNAIEF, MD adults, we “want” to exercise, but we “don’t have time.” The result of this is a nation of couch potatoes. I once heard that the couch is the worst deep-fried food. It perpetuates inactivity, especially when watching TV. Even sleeping burns more calories. I think part of the problem, generally, is that we don’t know what type of exercise is best and how long and frequently to do it. These days, many who depend on gyms, dance studios and other exercise-related facilities for exercise are struggling to find meaningful substitutes. Well, guess what? There is an easy way to get tremendous benefit with very little time involved. You don’t need expensive equipment, and you don’t have to join a gym. You can sharpen your wits with your feet. Jane Brody has written in The New York Times’ Science Times about Esther Tuttle. Esther was 99 years old, sharp as a tack and was independently mobile, with no aids needed. She continued to stay active by walking in the morning for 30 minutes and then walking again in the afternoon. The skeptic might say that this is a nice story, but its value is anecdotal at best. Well, evidence-based medicine backs up her claim that walking is a rudimentary and simple way to get exercise that shows incredible benefits. One mile of walking a day will help keep the doctor away. Walking has a powerful effect on preserving brain function and even growing certain areas of the brain (1). Walking between six and nine miles a week, or just one mile a day, reduced the risk of cognitive impairment over 13 years and actually increased the amount of gray matter tissue in the brain over nine years. Those participants who had an increase in brain tissue volume had a substantially

'Blossoming Trees' by Joseph Rotella

Art Exhibit opens in Port Jeff

METRO photo

reduced risk of developing cognitive impairment. Interestingly, the parts of the brain that grew included the hippocampus, involved with memory, and the frontal cortex, involved with short-term memory and executive decision making. There were 299 participants who had a mean age of 78 and were dementia free at the start of the trial. Imagine if you started earlier? In yet another study, moderate exercise reduced the risk of mild cognitive impairment with exercise begun in mid-tolate life (2). Even better news is that, if you’re pressed for time or if you’re building up your stamina, you can split a mile into two halfmile increments. How long does it take you to walk a half-mile? You’ll be surprised at how much better you will feel — and how much sharper your thinking is. This is a terrific strategy to get you off the couch or away from your computer. Set an alarm for specific points throughout the day and use that as a prompt to get up and walk, even if only for 15 minutes. The miles will add up quickly. In addition to the mental acuity benefits, this may also help with your psychological health, giving you a mental break from endless Zoom calls and your eyes a break from endless screens. If you ratchet up the exercise to running, a study showed that mood also improves, mollifying anger (3). The act of running

Walking regularly can elevate your mood actually increases your serotonin levels, a hormone that, when low, can make people agitated or angry. So, exercise may actually help you get your aggressions out. Walking has other benefits as well. We’ve all heard about the importance of doing weight-bearing exercise to prevent osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures. The movie WALL-E even did a spoof on this, projecting a future where people lived in their movable recliners. The result was a human skeletal structure that had receded over the generations from lack of use. Although it was tongue-in-cheek, it wasn’t too far from the truth; if you don’t use them, bones weaken and break. Walking is a weight-bearing exercise that helps strengthen your joints, bones and muscles. So, remember, use your feet to keep your mind sharp and yourself even-tempered. Activities like walking will help you keep a positive attitude, preserve your bones and help increase the plasticity of your brain.

References:

(1) Neurology Oct 2010, 75 (16) 1415-1422. (2) Arch Neurol. 2010;67(1):80-86. (3) J Sport Exerc Psychol. 2010 Apr;32(2):253-261. Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com.

The Port Jefferson Free Library, 100 Thompson St., Port Jefferson invites the community to view its latest art exhibit in the Meeting Room titled Celebration of Art/Coming Out of the Pandemic by artist Joseph Rotella through the month of December. The exhibit will feature landscape and floral narratives which were all created during the pandemic. For more information, call 631-473-0022.

Forest Bathing program

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for a new program, Winter Solstice Forest Bathing and Full Moon Ceremony, on Friday, Dec. 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Join the staff for a mindful forest walk under the Full Moon. Then, participate in song to raise the vibrations of the group. This period of deep winter reflection will allow you to release negativity and welcome in new opportunities and joy! This is an outdoor event. Please dress warmly. Meet in field behind the house. For ages 14 and up. Raindate is Dec. 19. $25 per person. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org or call 631-979-6344.

Church to host 'GriefShare'

Are you seeking help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member or close friend? St. James Lutheran Church, 230 2nd. Ave., St. James will provide GriefShare, a 13-session support group program, at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays from Jan. 12 through April 6, 2022. The program will be hosted by Bonnie Spiegel and Deacon James Lundgren, longtime Care Givers at St. James Lutheran Church and is offered free of charge to all members of the community seeking bereavement support — a warm and caring group “oasis” during their long journeys through grief. It is offered without cost, completely underwritten by a generous grant from St. James Funeral Home, owned and operated by the Maher family. Call 631-584-5212 for reservations and find more information at www.griefshare.org.

PAGE B8 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Help is available! Financial assistance is available to help you resolve missed payments and get back on track. We are here to help and can guide you to the support you need. We will not shut off service for non-payment at this time and we want to find a solution for you.

Contact us to find out if you qualify for these programs Special Protections If you had a change in financial circumstances due to New York’s COVID-19 State of Emergency, you may be entitled to these protections under a new law.

Financial Assistance If you need help paying your bill, you might be eligible for financial assistance from the following programs:

No disconnection of electric service for non-payment before January 2022

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

A new or restructured deferred payment agreement with no down payment, late fees or penalties

Emergency HEAP United Way of Long Island’s Project Warmth

Regular Arrears Supplement HEAP Benefit One-time benefit of up to $10,000 Available to households that qualify for HEAP Funds can be applied to past due charges for electricity or natural gas

Learn more about available resources at

61470

PSEGLINY.com/Assistance or call 800-490-0025 today

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B9

BUSINESS NEWS Rotary Book Drive a success

NV Beauty Boutique celebrates grand opening On December 4, Councilwoman Jane Bonner joined Rocky Point Sound Beach Chamber of Commerce president Gary Pollakusky to celebrate the grand opening of the new NV Beauty Boutique in Rocky Point. Located at 14 Broadway Avenue in Rocky Point, the boutique offers a variety services, specializes in skincare, facials, microdermabrasion, peels, waxing, brows and lashes. Pictured from left are Councilwoman Jane Bonner; staff members Jamie Longman, Kyra Brandstadter, owner Nicole Villorente; staff

members Susan McCartney and Alicia Reilly; and Rocky Point Sound Beach Chamber of Commerce President, Gary Pollakusky. “I’m very happy to welcome the NV Beauty Boutique and I wish the owners the best of luck. I encourage everyone to stop in and say hello to Nicole and the staff. They are a great addition to the Rocky Point Business District and our community," said Councilwoman Bonner. Hours are by appointment. For more information, call 631-403-6562 or visit www. nvbeautyboutiqueli.com.

This past weekend Judy Farabaugh, a representative from the Northport Rotary, along with several members of the community group, delivered 200 boxes containing 10,000 books to the home of Hindi's Libraries co-founder, Leslie Gang, a result of their latest book drive. The rotary, whose mission includes supporting education and promoting literacy, has been a supporter of Hindi's Libraries since the organization's inception. In addition to the book donations, Hindi's Libraries received a generous contribution of $2,000 from the Northport Rotary to assist with shipping costs the nonprofit may incur. Hindi's Libraries is a 501c3 international nonprofit that donates new and gently used children's books all over the world, spanning across 50 states, Israel, India, Puerto Rico, Haiti and Africa. Books are sent to recipients, completely free of charge, as the nonprofit absorbs all fees associated with shipping. Since the organization's inception in 2018, they have collected more than 250,000 books and partnered with 650 organizations worldwide. All books are dedicated in memory of Dr. Hindi Krinsky, 32 year old educator and mother of 5 who suddenly passed away in August of 2018 due to complications from Crohn's disease. For more information, visit www.hindislibraries.org.

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty to open Huntington Main Street office Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty has announced that it is in the process of moving its longtime Huntington office from Park Avenue to a prime location on the corner of Main Street and New York Avenue in downtown Huntington Village. The new office will reap the benefits of high visibility and heavy foot traffic in this destination village known for its popular restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues. Daniel Gale Sotheby’s Chief Executive Officer Deirdre O’Connell made the announcement with the expectation that the new office will open in early spring 2022. “To say that we are excited about our new location is an understatement,” said O’Connell. “We are delighted to bring a state of the art real estate office to downtown Huntington Village. Not only is Huntington the hometown of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, our very first office was founded on this busy corner in 1922. Its opening will coincide with the start of our 100th anniversary celebration.” As the new home base for some 50 real estate advisors, the office, located at 263 Main

Street with display windows running alongside New York Ave., has already been festooned with signs bearing Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s familiar whale logo. “We’re sad to say goodbye to our longtime home on Park Avenue,” said O’Connell, “but this new office will incorporate design elements developed to accommodate the latest technology, the health and safety needs of those who work there or visit, and include leading edge meeting rooms.” Eric McCarthy, sales manager of the Huntington Eric McCarthy and Deidre O'Connell in front of the new location. Photo courtesy of Daniel Gale Sotheby's office, is equally enthused Long Island’s most desirable communities in about the move to Main Street. “An essential part of our culture is being part of the local which to live, and we look forward to inviting community, and we will be in the thick of it our neighbors, friends and passersby to stop here on Main Street. Huntington is among in and say hello.”

COMINGS AND GOINGS

Salon makeover

J.J. Family Hair Salon recently opened at 1069 North Country Road, Stony Brook. The former Lemon Tree, located across from the Stony Brook train station, has been completely remodeled by new owners and hair stylists Chen and Beth. The full service unisex salon offers an array of services including haircuts, color, perms, updos, conditioning treatments and much more. Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information or to make an appointment, call 631-888-3804.

PSEG COO to retire in 2022

Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) announced today that PSEG Long Island President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Daniel Eichhorn will retire in 2022. Eichhorn will continue in his current role Daniel Eichhorn until a successor is named to ensure a smooth transition and a continued utmost commitment to customer service on Long Island. Eichhorn was named president and COO of PSEG Long Island in October 2017. Previously, Eichhorn served as PSEG Long Island’s vice president for Customer Service. “During his 32 years of dedicated service, Dan has focused on significant operational improvements and an unwavering commitment to our customers and employees on Long Island and in New Jersey,” PSEG COO Ralph LaRossa said. “Dan’s leadership has helped place the PSEG Long Island workforce in a position to move into its next chapter with the right tools, team and dedication to serving every customer. We thank Dan for his considerable contributions across both Long Island and New Jersey over more than three decades of service.”

PAGE B10 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Help your local community by participating in New York Blood Center's blood drives:

FINANCIAL FOCUS

◆ Smithtown Fire Department, 100 Elm Ave., Smithtown will hold a blood drive in the Meeting Room on Monday, Dec. 20 from 2:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call 631-265-1503. ◆ Smithtown High School East, 10 School St., St. James will host a blood drive on Wednesday, Dec. 22 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 631382-2705. ◆ Hauppauge Public Library, 1373 Veterans Highway, Hauppauge hosts a blood drive on Wednesday, Dec. 29 from noon to 6 p.m. Call 631979-1600 for more information.

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The S&P rebounded with the biggest weekly increase since February. There have been some encouraging signs, specifically, that the Omicron variant may have less severe symptoms than the Delta variant. A major concern is growing inflation. BY MICHAEL E. RUSSELL Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has radically changed his position on fiscal tightening. This is due to severe price increases that we have seen over the past 6 months. This week, at the conclusion of the FOMC meeting, we will have a much clearer picture as to what the FED is thinking. This past week all sectors of the market were higher. Tech and energy were the leaders, while discretionary and utilities did well also. These 2 sectors were up 2.5% The U.S. Department of Labor reported initial jobless claims fell again. The numbers indicated almost full employment. CPI data which measures the prices to consumers for goods is used as one measure of inflation. November numbers indicate a 0.8% on top of a 0.9% advance in October. These numbers are troublesome in that they are the highest in more than 40 years. For those of us that were around then, think about the years of the administration of Jimmy Carter. As a side note, I remember that the administration sold the Presidential yacht Sequoia for $60,000! I thought that the Treasury was down to its last $60,000.

61800

Wow! So many things to ponder. PutinUkraine, China-Taiwan, OPEC, Southern Border Immigration.

The energy sector will be one to focus on. Gas and oil prices are already up 50%. Supply chain issues will still be in the forefront. Cargo ships are laying at or outside the port of Los Angeles; some have been there for more than 50 days. A shortage of chips, meat prices up 30%, vegetables up 22%, etc. With all of this inflationary data, the stock market keeps going up. The reason for this is simple. TINA! — There is no alternative. I am a staunch follower of Jim Cramer. I closely monitor what the holdings are in his charitable trust. Here are some of my favorites: Abbot Labs, Advanced Micro Devices, Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Apple, Chevron, Costco, Ford and Wells Fargo Costco is a well run company, opening new facilities in France and China as well as 19 more in the U.S. As I mentioned before, containers destined for Costco are delayed for up to 2 months. If the supply chain issue is resolved, the earnings should be even more robust. Ford should be looked at also. Their truck division, specifically the all electric F150, should add to earnings. To summarize, the stock market should continue to climb with 5-10% corrections interrupting its upward momentum. For those crypto currency followers, I would expect some government regulation to occur. From my family to yours, we wish all a great holiday and a happy and healthy New Year! Michael E. Russell retired after 40 years working for various Wall Street firms. All recommendations being made here are not guaranteed and may incur a loss of principal. The opinions and investment recommendations expressed in the column are the author's own. TBR News Media does not endorse any specific investment advice and urges investors to consult with their financial advisor.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B11

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PAGE B12 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

SEISKAYA BALLET’S

h” es s i v a “l Y Tim the N on,

Lips

Nutcracker 6 Spectacular Performances

December 16 thru 19 Thursday at 7PM Friday at 7PM Saturday at 2PM & 7PM Sunday at 1PM & 6PM

THEME: Winter Fun CLUES ACROSS

Staller Center for the Arts Stony Brook University Box office (631) 632-ARTS

www.nutcrackerballet.com

62080

Attended Staller Box Office hours are: Monday-Saturday 11AM-3PM & 2 hours before each show.

“ENCHANTING” Parks, Newsday

SUDOKU PUZZLE

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1. Rope fiber 5. Mai ____ 8. Russia's Terrible one, e.g. 12. "What ____ Happened to Baby Jane?" 13. Tattled 14. Actress Reed 15. Internet share-able 16. Inwardly 17. Black tropical hardwood 18. *Winged impression in winter 20. Home of the Hawkeyes 21. Investigative report 22. Chicken or this? 23. Not dense 26. Early-day supercontinent 30. Afternoon shut-eye 31. Even though 34. Picture on a coat 35. Anti-seniors sentiment 37. Jean of Dadaism 38. Crewneck alternative 39. Half-man, half-goat 40. Arm cover 42. Victoria Beckham ____ Adams 43. Lacking sense of moral standards 45. Flying high 47. Often part of disguise 48. Queen-like 50. Wood file 52. *____ ____ Plunge 56. Secret stash 57. Damien's prediction 58. Not at work 59. Opposite of cation 60. Abbreviated seconds 61. Precedes stated rank 62. Moon pull 63. *Like toddy or cocoa 64. Trans-Siberian Railroad city

Answers to last week's puzzle:

Happy Holidays

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

Answers to last week's SUDOKU:

CLUES DOWN 1. Shortens pants 2. Like fair share 3. Short for memorandum 4. Antebellum 5. Polynesian kingdom 6. Ten-pin establishment 7. Bucolic poem 8. *Ride on runners 9. *Winter building material 10. Tolstoy's Karenina 11. R&B Charles 13. *Glittery decor 14. Condescend 19. Indian black tea 22. Nibble 23. Big mess 24. Like a Druid, e.g. 25. Celery, technically 26. *Snowman's corn cob accessory 27. Are not 28. Wedding singer, e.g. 29. Questioned 32. *Snow____, ammunition 33. *"But I heard him exclaim, ____ he drove out of sight..." 36. *Winter walking aid 38. Type of consonant 40. Actors' grp. 41. a.k.a. strict vegetarians 44. Mature, as in fruit 46. Like Silas of "The Da Vinci Code" 48. Young Montague 49. Decide at the polls 50. Jasmine of "Aladdin" 51. Turns blue litmus red 52. #42 Across, once 53. Cheese from Netherlands 54. Contributions to the poor 55. Stink to high heaven 56. *Arctic ____, snowmobile brand * THEME RELATED CLUE

Answers to this week’s puzzle will appear in next week’s newspaper.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B13

BOOK REVIEW

Dancing Past the Light By Orel Protopopescu

REVIEWED BY JEFFREY SANZEL

“Ballet is an ephemeral art, embedded in the mortal human body.” Principal ballerina Tanaquil Le Clercq (1929-2000) was the fourth and final wife of choreographer and founder of the New York City Ballet, George Balanchine. Tanaquil— known as “Tanny”—was a muse to Balanchine as well as the genre-crossing Jerome Robbins. Both legendary artists created immortal works for Le Clercq. At twenty-seven, she contracted polio, ending her career as a dancer but not her connection to the art of dance. Illustrated by 100 photos, Dancing Past the Light (University Press of Florida) is a fascinating account of Le Clercq—her vocation, her challenges, and the underlying strength and humanity that allowed her to triumph in the face of a devastating illness. Author Orel Protopopescu provides almost a dual biography of Le Clercq and Balanchine, two lives that remained inseparable even after their divorce. Le Clercq descended from affluent, educated people: “On both sides, Tammy’s immediate ancestors were adventurous, artistic, worldly, and liberal-minded for their times.” However, her parent’s fiscal situation was tenuous. Her St. Louis debutante mother, Edith, was the driving force behind her early dancing, enrolling her at New York City’s King-Coit School. As a scholarship student in theatre and art, she performed for the first time at five years old. By age seven, she was studying at Mikhail Mordkin’s ballet school. She entered Balanchine’s School of American Ballet at age eleven, awarded one of the school’s first full scholarships. Her acceptance to the school coincided with the final dissolution of her parent’s marriage, strained by her father’s excessive drinking. The couple separated in 1946. Her father would remarry; her mother would remain single and a constant if sometimes unwanted presence in Le Clercq’s life. “The umbilical cord had stretched a bit further over the years but was never severed.” The author provides detailed accounts of the demanding training, the rehearsals, and especially the performances. She conveys Le Clercq as an artist-in-motion, and the descriptions are exceptional. Additionally, Protopopescu traces her rise in the company, balancing the personal and professional particulars with dozens of interviews with friends and colleagues. At the center is her connection with Balanchine whom she saw as “an old fogey”

Author Orel Protopopescu Photo by Jan La Roche

until she began receiving more personal instruction. Balanchine was a demanding director, influencing every area of his dancers’ lives, particularly the female dancers. Balanchine preferred “thin, tall female dancers with long necks and limbs.” Le Clercq epitomized this. While there were hints of Balanchine’s interest, by the time she was twenty, he was no longer hiding it. There were strong possibilities that he sabotaged or at least manipulated elements of her personal and romantic life. The Le Clercq-Balanchine courtship and marriage are explored with great insight, including the complications rooted in the age difference and Balanchine’s need to seek a younger muse. Balanchine proposed Christmas 1952. She was twenty-three to his forty-eight. Without hesitation, she excepted, and they were married on New Year’s Eve. But, true to form, the work came first. They premiered the ballet Concertino the night before. Le Clercq worked well and often with the mercurial and demanding Jerome Robbins. As with Balanchine, the complicated professional-personal relationship is surveyed with respect and candor and the complex triangle that existed between the three. Protopopescu provides a visceral report of the European tour of 1956, during which Le Clercq contracted polio. At that time, her marriage to Balanchine was waning, and she had no desire to go. Following her contraction of the disease, Le Clercq faced a long recovery and the harsh reality of knowing that she

Tanaquil Le Clercq, backstage at City Center, ca. 1954, © Anton Alterman/Harold Roth Photography

would never dance again. “I’m not a dancer anymore. Who am I?” This was the question she faced after over two decades of dancing. A brutal, vivid picture of a polio victim follows, showing both the physical and psychological pains and the life limitations. But it also shows Le Clercq transforming by fearlessly facing the problems. As her friend Pat McBride explained: “Her wit and strength never left her nor did she indulge in self-pity. It was always a treat to be in her vivacious company.” Eventually, she coached and taught at Arthur Mitchell’s Dance Theatre of Harlem using hand gestures—“a sort of balletic sign language”—to convey the choreography while seated in her wheelchair. The author touches upon the issue of race in the dance world and the lack of diversity and underrepresentation of African-Americans in Balanchine’s

company. While not an activist, Le Clercq’s work with the DTH spoke volumes. Dancing Past the Light will be of particular interest to ballet fans; it is an extraordinary celebration of a life in dance, with its highs and lows, challenges and rewards. It is an honest study of the people with whom one makes art. It is also a beautiful, authentic portrait of an exceptionally strong individual who faced a cataclysmic shift and rose above it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A resident of Miller Place, Orel Protopopescu is an award-winning author, poet, and translator. Dancing Past the Light: The Life of Tanaquil Le Clercq is her first biography. Pick up a copy of the book at Amazon.com, or BarnesandNoble.com. For more information on the author, visit www. orelprotopopescu.com.

PAGE B14 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

EARLY TO BED

Joseph Rotondi of Setauket snapped this beautiful sunset at Stony Brook harbor on Dec. 10. He writes, ‘I was amazed at the double image of the setting sun. The fact that it was only 4:15 p.m. was a startling reminder of the impending Winter solstice.’ Send your Photo of the Week to leisure@tbrnewspapers.com

THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS BUTTERCUP’S OWN FRESH BAKED PUMPKIN PIE $4.99 8”

FLORIDA’S NATURAL ORANGE JUICE $2.99 52 OZ. VARIETIES

BREYER’S ICE CREAM $4.99 ALL 46 OZ. FLAVORS

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LAND O LAKES BUTTER $2.99 ONE POUND VARIETIES

GALBANI MOZZARELLA CHEESE $3.99 ONE POUND BLOCKS

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MON-FRIDAY – 8am-7pm • SAT-SUN – 8am-6pm OPEN - 8am-4pm Christmas Eve CLOSED - Christmas Day Due To Increasing Staffing Issues:

Please expect our Walk-Up Deli Counter to be closed. Shop Deli-Express for instant convenience or phone in an order ahead of time for particular requests. Please call one hour in advance.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B15

COOKING COVE

Pomegranates for holiday dishes and decor

BY BARBARA BELTRAMI

omegranates are such a holiday treat for eating as well as decorating. They’re expensive (what isn’t?) and their prep, scooping out the seeds, is also labor intensive and messy. However, you can buy the seeds in a container and just decorate with the pomegranates themselves whose rich red color makes a lovely holiday arrangement when they are scattered among evergreen branches. And not only are pomegranates lovely and delicious, but they are thought to have many health benefits. I like to use the seeds and/or juice in Christmas punches, green salads, and desserts, but there are so many ways to use them in all sorts of dishes from ethnic to traditional.

Champagne-Pomegranate Punch

YIELD: Makes 12 servings INGREDIENTS: • 1 quart pomegranate juice • 2 cups orange juice (no pulp) • 2 cups chilled pink lemonade • 1 1/2 cups pomegranate seeds • One 750 ml bottle chilled champagne • Lime slices for garnish • Crushed ice DIRECTIONS:

In a nice pretty sparkly punch bowl combine the pomegranate juice, orange juice, lemonade and pomegranate seeds; pour in champagne and float lime slices on top. Ladle into punch cups filled 1/3 way with crushed ice. Serve with hors d’oeuvres.

Green Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings INGREDIENTS: • 1 head romaine lettuce, washed, dried and torn into bite-size pieces • 1 Belgian endive, washed and sliced • 4 cups baby arugula, washed and dried • 1/4 cup champagne vinegar • 1/4 cup pomegranate juice • 1/2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1 tablespoon orange juice • 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup pomegranate seeds • 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted, husked and finely chopped DIRECTIONS:

In a large salad bowl combine the romaine lettuce, Belgian endive, and arugula. Cover and refrigerate up to 6 hours, but let sit at room temperature at least 30 minutes before serving. In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the champagne vinegar,

Pixabay photo

pomegranate juice, lemon juice, orange juice, orange zest, salt and pepper. Pour in olive oil gradually while continuing to whisk until mixture forms an emulsion. When ready to serve salad, dress with vinegar and oil mixture, toss, then sprinkle pomegranate seeds and hazelnuts on top and serve immediately with crusty bread and soft cheeses.

Chocolate - Pomegranate Tart

YIELD: Makes 10 to 12 servings INGREDIENTS: • One 9” pie crust • 1/2 pound bittersweet chocolate, chopped • 1/4 pound semi-sweet chocolate, chopped • 1/2 stick unsalted butter • 1 cup heavy cream • 3 tablespoons sugar • 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds • 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts • Sea salt to taste DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease a 9” round tart pan. Press pie crust into sides and bottom of pan; prick all over with tines of a dinner fork; cover with aluminum foil gently molded to shape of pan; weight with pie weights or uncooked beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile in a large heatproof bowl combine the chocolate and butter. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, sugar and salt; stirring frequently, cook until mixture reaches a gentle simmer, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stirring constantly, pour

cream mixture into chocolate mixture until chocolate and butter are melted and mixture has achieved a smooth consistency; pour into tart shell and refrigerate until filling just starts to set, about 30 to 40 minutes. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds, walnuts and sea salt on top of filling and refrigerate at least two hours or until completely set. Serve with crème fraîche and an assortment of liqueurs.

ONLY ON THE WEB: Check out the following stories on our website, www.tbrnewsmedia.com

» Town of Brookhaven INTERFACE Toy Drive underway » Pinelawn families adorn loved one's memorials with environmentally-friendly holiday decorations » Six artists win awards in the 60th Long Island Artists Exhibition at the Art League of Long Island » How to care for fresh holiday wreaths » Recipe with video: Caramel Sticky Rolls

Horoscopes of the week

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Stand up for what you believe in this week, Sagittarius. Others will be inspired by your actions and may join in support of the cause you’ve championed. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 The pressure on you has been tremendous lately, Capricorn. You may want to treat yourself to a well-deserved rest. The break will quickly rejuvenate you. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 This is a good time to pursue your dreams, Aquarius. Make a list of smaller steps that will help you achieve your goals and then put the plan into action. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You can’t avoid every poor situation that comes your way, Pisces. Don’t run and hide, but step up and face the music. ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Relationships will be easy for you this week, Aries. You will be in tune with the vibe of the people with whom you interact on a daily basis and can push interactions further. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Remember to take lessons from those who have blazed trails before you. Taurus. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Explore some tried and true strategies. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, your desire to remodel or redecorate your home could come to the forefront this week. Be careful to set a budget; otherwise, you run the risk of overspending. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 You may be lacking some self-confidence in the romance department right now, Cancer. Phone a friend and get the pep talk you need to realize you’ve got what it takes. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you may tempted to turn off your phone this week, as the idea of a device-free day is enticing. Take a brief time out from technology each day. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, if you feel backed into a corner, try not to lash out but understand others’ opinions and why they may be questioning you. Listen and you’ll find a solution. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, it’s unlikely you can check everything off of your list this week. Don’t let that get you down, however. You will accomplish a lot. Measured progress is still progress SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may be known for being serious much of the time, but it’s alright to be goofy and playful once in a while. Engage in some entertaining antics.

PAGE B16 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Ongoing

Festival of Trees

Visit the Festival of Trees, a month long extravaganza to kick off the holiday shopping season, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson today through Jan. 2 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. For more information, call 802-2160.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

Bright Lights, a holiday light spectacular, returns to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 19 and Dec. 22 and 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy themed displays, festive food, music, Santa and Friends and holiday lights during this holiday walk. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children under 12, free for children under age 2. Order tickets online at www. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Times ... and dates Dec. 16 to Dec. 23, 2021

Studio 268, 268 Main St. Setauket invites the community to view its latest art show featuring a collection of fine art by local artists (available for purchase) today from noon to 5 p.m. Proceeds from an art raffle and a percentage from art sales will be donated to The Three Village Central School District food pantries.

Welcome Winter Walk

Artist’s Talk with Jeremy Dennis

Friday 17

Evening at the Barn fundraiser

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for an evening of acoustic music by The Belle Curves and The Old Ironsides, animal encounters, short presentations, and refreshments in their beautiful historic barn from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person at www. sweetbriarnc.org. Call 979-6344 for more info.

Sunday 19

Art Show fundraiser

Thursday 16

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Long Island Maritime Lecture Series with a presentation by Nancy Solomon, Executive Director of Long Island Traditions, at 7 p.m. Solomon will discuss her latest book, Boat Builders and Boat Yards of Long Island: A Tribute to Tradition and share the stories she collected from traditional boat builders and boatyard managers in the region during the late 1990s to present day. Tickets are $6 per person at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

The Smithtown Fire Department hosts its 42nd annual Smithtown Christmas Parade starting at the firehouse at 4 p.m. with many stops including Town Hall Meat Farms, Smithtown High School West. New toys and canned goods will be collected at all stops. Visit www.smithtownfd.org for more info.

Get your farm fix in the off-season when the Huntington Winter Farmers Market returns every Sunday through March 27, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located behind the senior center at 423 Park Ave., Huntington, visitors will find items ranging from hydroponic greens to artisan breads and vegan treats and everything in between. Call 944-2661.

The spirit of the season has returned to Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook with the Garden of Lights, a community-built walk-through light show for all ages on Dec. 16, 17, 20 and 21 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Call 588-5024.

Vanderbilt lecture

Smithtown Christmas Parade

Winter Farmers Market

Garden of Lights

Join fine art photographer Jeremy Dennis for a discussion of his body of work during a virtual Artist’s Talk at 7 p.m. Dennis’s photography explores indigenous identity, cultural assimilation, and the ancestral traditional practices of the Shinnecock Indian Nation, of which he is a tribal member. Free, $10 suggested donation appreciated. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org or call 367-3418.

Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson at 3 p.m. Free.

Photo from Vanderbilt Museum VANDERBILT MAGIC William K. Vanderbilt II’s Eagle Nest Estate in Centerport has been transformed into a holiday light spectacular through Dec. 23 with a Bright Lights ‘encore’ from Dec. 26 to 29.

Saturday 18 The Holiday Market

The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket and Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket and WUSB continue with The Holiday Market, a series of outdoor holiday shopping events, today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature over 40 vendors offering original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, pottery, woodwork, glassware, artisan created jewelry, handmade crafts, decorations, and clothing along with music, children’s activities and food trucks. Call 751-3730 or 751-2676.

Holiday Gift & Craft Fair

Join Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington for a Holiday Gift & Craft Fair from noon to 5 p.m. The festive event will feature holiday gifts, custom drinkware, hand-crafted accessories and jewelry, oneof-a-kind handmade art, wreaths, candles, jewelry, chocolates, bath products, gifts for teachers and co-workers, stocking stuffers and so much more! Call 421-5835. * All numbers are in (631) area code unless otherwise noted.

Dorian Consort String Trio

Port Jefferson’s Charles Dickens Festival continues with a concert by the Dorian Consort String Trio at the Masonic Lodge, 312 Main St., Port Jefferson at 1 p.m. Free.

An evening of Christmas caroling

Fort Salonga Association invites the community to its annual Christmas Caroling event at the IGA shopping center, 10 Fort Salonga Road, Fort Salonga at 2 p.m. featuring music by Paul Graf and The Fort Salonga Band and the Kings Park High School Chorus along with a special visit from Santa.

Kings Park Christmas Parade

The Kings Park Fire Department will host the 2021 Christmas Parade and Food Drive beginning at the firehouse, 2 East Main St., Kings Park at 2:30 p.m. and making stops throughout the town until 9:30 p.m. Canned goods will be collected at all stops. Visit www.kingsparkfd.org for more info.

Songs of the Season concert

Port Jefferson’s Charles Dickens Festival continues with a concert by Songs of the Season in the Skip Jack Room at the Port

Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park for a Welcome Winter Walk from 1:30 to 3 p.m. From marshland to forest, take a stroll through Sunken Meadow State Park as you welcome in winter! The temperature should be crisp, so dress for the weather! $4 per person. Reservations are required by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for #NatureEdventures.

Songs for Wintertide II

WUSB’s Sunday Street Series and the Long Island Museum will present a webcast titled Songs for Wintertide II tonight at 7 p.m. Artists including The Attention Seekers w/ Jesse Terry & Sam Blewitt, The Kennedys, Ray Lambiase, Jez Lowe, Lynn Miles, Ellis Paul, Darryl Purpose, Jesse Terry, Sloan Wainwright, Craig Werth, Brooks Williams and The Wynotte Sisters will perform songs for the winter & holiday season. The concert can be seen on the Long Island Museum’s Facebook page (facebook.com/LIMuseum) via a YouTube link to be provided the day of the webcast. Call 751-0066. 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.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B17

Greenlawn tree lighting

First Presbyterian Church, 497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn hosts a Christmas Tree Lighting event at 5 p.m. Join them for caroling, hot chocolate and cookies. Call 261-2150.

Monday 20 Do you know a lot about movies? Well here’s your chance to prove it! Join the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington for a virtual Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Hosted by Dan French, the winning team will get up to four CAC Gift Cards (1 per team member) and bragging rights. Tickets are $10 per team, $7 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org to register. Questions? Email Danlovestrivia@gmail.com.

Tuesday 21 See Film category.

Wednesday 22 Smithtown Library, Commack Branch, 3 Indian Head Road, Commack presents a program titled Buster Keaton: Stone-Faced Clown of Comedy from 7 to 8 p.m, Keith Crocker will explore the life and career of master comedian Buster Keaton. Register by calling 360-2480.

TBR AR

No events listed for this day.

Film

‘The Oyster Farmers & How Oysters Revitalize Native Waters’

Virtual Movie Trivia Night

Buster Keaton program

Thursday 23

The Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington presents a free online film screening of The Oyster Farmers & How Oysters Revitalize Native Waters on Dec. 21 at 6 p.m. in partnership with Long Island Oyster Growers Association, ChooseLI and the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning and made possible with support from the Long Island Community Foundation. The feature length documentary, ‘The Oyster Farmers’, explores the plight of the oyster, offering a keyhole view of human impact on the environment. This program includes an online panel discussion and Q&A with Sue Wicks, Violet Cove Oyster Company, Chuck Westfall, Thatch Island Oyster Farm, Elizabeth Peeples, Little Ram Oysters moderated by August Ruckdeschel of the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning. Register at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Leave it to the Beavers’

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for a screening of Nature’s Leave it to the

G BO O K TIST CO LO RIN

Beavers at the Smithtown Library Main Branch, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown on Dec. 17 (rescheduled from Dec. 3) at 6:30 p.m. Discover why this curious animal is so important to our landscapes and ecosystems. Followed by a discussion. Free. To register, call 766-3075.

Theater

Nutcracker Ballet

Seiskaya Ballet’s The Nutcracker heads to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Dec. 16 and 17 at 7 p.m., Dec. 18 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Dec. 19 at 1 and 6 p.m. Call 631-632-ARTS or visit www.nutcrackerballet.com.

‘White Christmas’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its MainStage season with White Christmas from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2, 2022. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming adaptation follows vaudeville stars and veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they head to Vermont to pursue romance with a duo of beautiful singing sisters. This family classic features beloved songs by Irving Berlin including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is The Ocean” and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Tickets range from $75 to $80 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘A Christmas Carol’

‘I will honor Christmas in my heart.’ Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for the 37th annual production of A Christmas Carol from Nov. 13 to Dec. 26. Celebrate the season with Long Island’s own holiday tradition and broadwayworld. com winner for Best Play. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Elf the Musical’

The Argyle Theater, 34 Main St., Babylon presents Elf the Musical through Jan. 2. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Tickets are priced from $40 to $79. Use Code: TIMES for $10 OFF* For more information, call 230-3500 or visit www.argyletheatre.com.

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More than 30 artists contributed a beautiful gallery of sketches that cover a wide range of styles and images with varying levels of coloring complexity.

PAGE B18 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Religious D irectory Catholic ABUNDANT LIFE CHURCH 17 Manor Road Smithtown, NY 11787 Paster Phil Join us every Sunday 10:30am You will be surprised! Leave as a friend come back as family Another location Abundant Life Church of God Hours of service vary 440 Furrows Road Holbrook, NY 11741 631-588-7704

INFANT JESUS ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 110 Myrtle Ave., Port Jefferson 631-473-0165 Fax 631-331-8094 www.www.infantjesus.org REVEREND PATRICK M. RIEGGER, PASTOR, ASSOCIATES: REV. FRANCIS LASRADO & REV. ROLANDO TICLLASUCA Christmas 2021 Sacrement of Reconciliation December, 18th, 12:30-1:15pm in lower Church Christmas Eve Friday, December 24th Church at 3:30 & 5:00pm Montfort Hall at 3:45pm Chapel at 4:00pm (Family Mass) 6:00pm and Midnight Mass (Chapel Only) Christmas Day Saturday, December 25th Church at 7:30, 10:30am and 2:00pm (Spanish Mass) Chapel at 8:30, 10:00 and 11:30am (No evening masses on Christmas Day) Parish Outreach: 631-331-6145 Weekly Masses: 6:50 and 9am in the Church, 12pm in the Chapel* Weekend Masses: Saturday at 5 pm in the Church, 4:00 pm in the Chapel,* Sunday at 7:30 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm in the Church and at 8:30 am, 10 am, and 11:30 am (Family Mass) in the Chapel* Spanish Masses: Sunday at 8:45 am and Wednesday at 6 pm in the Church *Held at the Infant Jesus Chapel at St. Charles Hospital

ST. GERARD MAJELLA ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station 631-473-2900 www.stgmajella.org REV. GREGORY RANNAZZISI, PASTOR Christmas Eve Mass at 4:00pm and 6:00pm Christmas Day Mass at 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm. (No 5:00pm Mass Christmas Day) Mass: Saturday 5pm Sunday 8am, 10am & 12pm Weekday Mass: 9am Confessions: Saturday 3:45pm-4:45pm Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am - 4:30pm

Thrift Shop: Monday-Thursday 10am - 4pm and Friday 10am-2pm. Baptism and Wedding arrangements can be made by calling the Parish Office

ST. JAMES ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 429 Rt. 25A, Setauket Phone: 631-941-4141 Fax: 631-751-6607 Parish Office email: parish@stjamessetauket.org www.stjamessetauket.org REV. ROBERT KUZNIK, PASTOR REV. ROBERT SCHECKENBACK, ASSOCIATE PASTOR REV. JOHN FITZGERALD, IN RESIDENCE REV. MIKE S. EZEATU, SBU HOSPITAL CHAPLAIN, IN RESIDENCE Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9am to 4pm ... Saturday 9am to 2pm Weekday Masses: Monday to Saturday 8am Weekend Masses: Saturday (Vigil) 5pm (Youth) Sunday 8am ... 9:30am (Family) ... 11:30am (Choir) CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2021 RECONCILIATION Saturday, December 18th 3:00 to 4:45pm Monday, December 20th after the 8:00am Mass 12 Noon to 1:30pm Tuesday, December 21st after the 8:00am Mass Wednesday, December 22nd after the 8:00am Mass 7:00pm to 8:00pm MASSES CHRISTMAS EVE Friday, December 24th 4:00pm in the Church 4:15pm in the Parish Center 7:00pm in the Church 10:30pm Carols in the Church 11:00pm ‘Midnight Mass’ CHRISTMAS DAY Saturday, December 25th 8:00am in the Church 9:30am in the Church 10:30am in the Parish Center 11:30am in the Church NEW YEAR’S EVE Friday, December 31st 5:00pm in the Church Gentle Eve Mass 7:00pm in the Church NEW YEAR’S DAY Saturday, January 1st 8:00am and 9:30am in the Church Outreach: 631-941-4141 x 313 Our Daily Bread Sunday Soup Kitchen 3:00 pm closed ... reopening TBD Food Pantry Open ... Wednesdays 12Noon to 2pm and Sundays 2pm to 3pm Mission Statement: We, the Catholic community of the Three Village area, formed as the Body of Christ through the waters of Baptism, are a pilgrim community journeying toward the fullness of the Kingdom of God, guided by the

Holy Spirit, nourished by the Eucharist and formed by the Gospel. We strive to respond to Jesus invitation: to be faithful and fruitful disciples; to be a Good Samaritan to our neighbor and enemy; to be stewards of and for God’s creation and to be living witness of Faith, Hope and Charity...so that in Jesus name, we may be a welcoming community, respectful of life in all its diversities.

Octave Day of Christmas: Jan. 1 7:00 am Mass 9:00 am Mass

Congregational MT. SINAI CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 233

ST. LOUIS DE MONTFORT ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 75 New York Avenue, Sound Beach Parish office: 631-744-8566; fax 631-744-8611 Parish website: www.stlouisdm.org REV. MSGR. CHRISTOPHER J. HELLER, PASTOR REV. ALPHONSUS IGBOKWE, ASSOCIATE PASTOR REV. MSGR. DONALD HANSON, IN RESIDENCE REV. FRANCIS PIZZARELLI, S.M.M., PARISH ASSISTANT REV. HENRY VAS Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs.: 9 am to 5 pm Wednesday: 9 am to 8 pm; Friday: 9 am to 4 pm; Saturday: 9 am to 1 pm; Closed on Sunday Mission Statement: To proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ’s love through our active involvement as a parish family in works of Charity, Faith, Worship, Justice and Mercy. ALL ARE WELCOME! No matter what your present status is in the Catholic Church. No matter your family situation. No matter your practice of faith. No matter your personal history, age or background. YOU are invited, respected and loved at St. Louis de Montfort. Weekday Masses: Monday through Friday 8:30 am in the Chapel Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil: 5 pm Sunday: 7:30 am; 10:00 am; 12 noon. Baptisms: Most Sundays at 1:30 pm. Please contact Parish Office for an appointment. Reconciliation: Saturday 4-4:45 pm or by appointment. Anointing of the Sick: by request. Holy Matrimony: Contact Parish Office at least six months in advance of desired date. Religious Education: Contact 631-744-9515 Parish Outreach: Contact 631-209-0325

Catholic Traditional Latin Mass ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL SOCIETY OF SAINT PIUS X 900 Horseblock Road, Farmingville 631-736-6515 sspxlongisland.com Sunday Masses at 7am and 9am Please consult sspxlongisland.com for updates and current mass times. Christmas: Candlelight Midnight Mass 9:00 am Mass

North

Country Road, Mt. Sinai 631-473-1582 www.msucc.org REV. DR. PHILIP HOBSON “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” We are back in the Sanctuary for Sunday worship at 8:30am and 10am. Christmas Eve-two services at 5pm and 9pm. Please bring a mask and proof of vaccination. We continue to observe physical distancing protocols, as well as other safety measures. For those unable to join us at this time, we will continue to provide our online service on our You Tube channel at 10am, and any time thereafter, with Rev. Phil Hobson. There will be Sunday School at 10am for our children, but not nursery. Through our worship and by our actions we strive to live out Christ’s message to love one another. The Island Heart Food Pantry continues to help those in need at 643 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, N.Y. Our hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 2:30-4:30pm. Wear a mask and stay in car. Grace and Peace, Rev. Phil

Episcopal ALL SOULS EPISCOPAL CHURCH Our little historic church on the hill across from the Stony Brook Duck Pond 61 Main Street, Stony Brook Visit our website www.allsoulsstonybrook.org or call 631-655-7798 allsoulsepiscopalchurch@verizon.net Friday Christmas Eve-4:00pm in Church Service with music by the Clark Family and 11:00pm in Church Service with Christmas Carols Saturday Christmas Day-8:00am Virtual Service and 9:30am in Church Service and Sunday-8:00am Virtual Service & 9:30 In Church Service Interdenominational Morning Prayer ServiceTuesday 8:00am- Half Hour Interdenominational Rosary Service-Wednesday 12noonSunday Services: 8am Virtual Service 9:30am Service at the Church-Organ Music This is a small eclectic Episcopal congregation that has a personal touch. We welcome all regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. Walk with us.

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

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B19

Religious D irectory Episcopal CAROLINE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF SETAUKET 1 Dyke Road on the Village Green, Setauket Web site: www.carolinechurch.net email: office@carolinechurch.net 631-941-4245 REV. COOPER CONWAY, INTERIM PRIEST-IN-CHARGE Let God walk with you as part of our familyfriendly community Friday December 24 5pm Family Service 8pm Eucharist with Choir Saturday December 25 10am Sunday December 26 9:30am Holy Eucharist Saturday 5pm Sunday 8am and 9:30am Church School at 9:30 classes now forming

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 127

Barnum

Av e . , P o r t J e f f e r s o n 631-473-0273 email: ccoffice@christchurchportjeff.org www.christchurchportjeff.org Church office hours: Tues. - Fri. 9am - 12pm FATHER ANTHONY DILORENZO: PRIEST IN CHARGE Please join us for our 5:00pm Christmas Eve Eucharist and 10:00am Christmas Day Eucharist. Those attending in person for either 5:00 or 10:00 Eucharist are asked to please make a reservation by calling the church office. PLEASE WEAR MASKS. A BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ALL. Please join us for our 8:00 and 10:00 Sunday Eucharists and our 10:00 Wednesday Eucharist in our chapel. Please wear masks. GOD BLESS YOU. Father Anthony DiLorenzo It is the mission of the people of Christ Church to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ and to make his love known to all through our lives and ministry. We at Christ Church are a joyful, welcoming community. Wherever you are in your journey of life we want to be part of it.

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH “To know Christ and to make Him known” 12 Prospect St, Huntington 631-427-1752 On Main St. next to the Library REV. DUNCAN A. BURNS, RECTOR MRS. CLAIRE MIS, SEMINARIAN ALEX PRYRODNY, MUSIC DIRECTOR & ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE Sunday Worship In Person, Zoom & Facebook 8:00 am Rite I Holy Eucharist with music 9:45 am Sunday School 10:00 am Rite II Holy Choral Eucharist Upcoming Concert Sing Noël Sunday, December 19th at 7:30 pm

Morning Prayer Via Zoom 9:00 am Monday thru Friday Thrift Shop Open! 12 to 3 pm Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays Volunteers needed Join us for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Worship info@stjohns1745.org (631) 427-1752 www.stjohns1745.org Facebook.com/stjohns1745

Greek Orthodox CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION 430 Sheep Pasture Rd., Port Jefferson Tel: 631-473-0894 Fax: 631-928-5131 www.kimisis.org goc.assumption@gmail.com REV. ELIAS (LOU) NICHOLAS, PROISTAMENOS Sunday Services: Orthros 8:30 Am - Divine Liturgy 10 Am Services Conducted In Both Greek & English* Books Available To Follow In English* Sunday Catechism School, 10 Am - 11 Am* Greek Language School, Tuesdays 5 Pm - 8 Pm* Bible Study & Adult Catechism Classes Available* Golden Age & Youth Groups Banquet Hall Available For Rental* For Information Please Call Church Office* Adjustments to services will be made according to CDC and NYState DOH COVID-19 guidelines. Please call Church office for updates.

Jewish NORTH SHORE JEWISH CENTER 385 Old Town Rd., Port Jefferson Station 631-928-3737 www.northshorejewishcenter.org RABBI AARON BENSON CANTOR DANIEL KRAMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MARCIE PLATKIN PRINCIPAL HEATHER WELKES YOUTH DIRECTOR JEN SCHWARTZ Services: Friday At 8 Pm; Saturday At 9:15 am Daily Morning And Evening Minyan Call For Times. Tot Shabbat Family Services Sisterhood Men’s Club Seniors’ Club Youth Group Continuing Ed Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah Judaica Shop Food Pantry Lecture Series Jewish Film Series NSJC JEWISH LEARNING CENTER RELIGIOUS SCHOOL Innovative Curriculum And Programming For Children Ages 5-13 Imagine A Synagogue That Feels Like Home! Come Connect With Us On Your Jewish Journey. Member United Synagogue Of Conservative Judaism.

TEMPLE ISAIAH (REFORM) 1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-8518 www.tisbny.org A Warm And Caring Intergenerational Community Dedicated To Learning, Prayer, Social Action, and Friendship. Member Union For Reform Judaism RABBI PAUL SIDLOFSKY CANTOR INTERN KALIX JACOBSON EDUCATIONAL DIRECTOR RABBI PAUL SIDLOFSKY, RABBI EMERITUS STEPHEN A. KAROL RABBI EMERITUS ADAM D. FISHER CANTOR EMERITUS MICHAEL F. TRACHTENBERG Sabbath Services: 1st Friday of the month 6pm, all other Fridays 7:30pm and Saturday B’nai services at 10am Religious School Monthly Family Service Monthly Tot Shabbat Youth Groups Adult Education Sisterhood Brotherhood Book Club-More

Lutheran-ELCA HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH AND ANCHOR NURSERY SCHOOL 46 Dare Road, Selden 631-732-2511 Emergency Number 516-848-5386 Email: office@hopelutheran.com Website: www.hopeluth.com REV. DR. RICHARD O. HILL, PASTOR DALE NEWTON, VICAR On Sundays the services are at 9 and 10:30 a.m. A link for all these services is on the website: www.hopeluth.com. Our Food Pantry is open to everyone on Thursdays from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for picking up food. Also, donations can be made from 11 a.m.-noon or by making arrangements by leaving a message on the church answering service. Offerings to support our ministry can be made at church services and through our website’s “Share God’s Mission” page. In any emergency, call the pastor at 516-848-5386

ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 309 Patchogue Road, Port Jefferson Station 631-473-2236 E-mail: Pastorpauldowning@yahoo.com Pastor’s cell: 347-423-3623 (voice or text) www.StPaulsLCPJS.org facebook.com/stpaulselca REV. PAUL A. DOWNING PASTOR Christmas Eve December 24 5:00pm Service of lessons, carols and communion in parking lot. Sit outside or in your car depending on the weather. 10:30 pm Traditional Candlelight Service inside church--lessons, carols, and communion-Masks Required.

Indoor service of Holy Communion will be offered each Sunday at 8:30am in our sanctuary. Out of consideration for those who may be unvaccinated for Covid-19, and since even those vaccinated may contact or pass on the coronavirus, masks are required in the building except as directed when receiving Holy Communion. We also ask that you just hum along or sing hymns quietly. Unless otherwise instructed, all pews are available. Please remain where you are seated for the duration of the service. You will be given communion wafers and bulletins upon arrival. Wine and grape juice will be distributed during communion. Please follow all directions. Outdoor Parking Lot Service is a Drive-In, or you may sit outside as weather permits. Please bring your own chair if possible. The service begins promptly at 10:30am. Enter from Maple Avenue. Greeters will provide communion wafers and bulletins. Sound will be broadcast on FM radio station 88.3 and with speakers as weather allows. Please maintain social distancing. Masks are not required. Please follow all directions. Morning worship is also available over Facebook Live at the church website or Facebook Live from 8:30am service.

Lutheran-LCMS MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH 465 Pond Path, East Setauket 631-751-1775 www.messiahny.org PASTOR NILS NIEMEIER ASSOCIATE PASTOR STEVE UNGER Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24th at 5:30pm & 8pm Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25th at 10am (both with Candlelight) Sunday Worship, December 26th at 10am Our worship services are 9am and 10:45am with Sunday school at 9am. We are still asking people to wear a mask and social distance. The service will be live streamed on our YouTube page. Go to our website (www.messiahny.org) for the link.We are here for you and if you are in need, please call us. Our Pastors are available and you are welcome to call the church to speak to them. May God keep you safe and shine His light and love upon you.

Methodist BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 33 Christian Ave/ PO 2117, E. Setauket 631-941-3581 REV. LISA WILLIAMS PASTOR Sunday Worship: 10:30 Am Adult Sunday School 9:30 Am

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

PAGE B20 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

Quilting group delivers blankets to seniors Smithtown residents belonging to the Senior Center’s Thursday Quilters club embraced the giving season with a heartwarming plan to spread tidings of joy to the Town’s wisest of residents. The group of talented quilters handmade lap blankets, which were then delivered by the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department to eight center members who turned 100 or older this year. The quilts were stitched with love, and packaged with a holiday greeting card, wishing each recipient a happy birthday and holiday season. Smithtown Senior Citizens Department employee Mae Inzone came up with the idea to present to the Thursday Quilters Club, which they happily embraced. The eight community members were deeply honored

by the special delivery. “The Senior Center is a very special place, where we all care for one another like family... which means celebrating all of life's victories, big and small. I’d like to commend Mae Inzone for this very thoughtful idea as well as our talented members in the quilting group who devoted countless hours to making these timeless gifts, which will be treasured and enjoyed for years to come," said Doreen Perrino, Smithtown Senior Citizens Department Program Director. Members of the Senior Center celebrating 100 years or more in 2021 include Mattie DiSpaltro (102), Fran Miller (101), Rita Maffe (100), Orlando Marotta (100), Janet DeVries (100), Lillian Guerriero (100), Mae Letsch (100) and Theresa Sanders (100).

Members of the Smithtown Senior Center's Thursday Quilters club. Photo from Town of Smithtown

“I’m deeply moved by this gesture given by the talented quilters and an incredible team at the Senior Center. I would like to formally wish our wisest and longest living

residents a very happy birthday & hope for a memorable, healthy holiday season with good friends and family," said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Religious D irectory Methodist

Presbyterian

BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF PORT JEFFERSON

33 Christian Ave/ PO 2117, E. Setauket 631-941-3581 REV. LISA WILLIAMS PASTOR Sunday Worship: 10:30 Am Adult Sunday School 9:30 Am Lectionary Reading And Prayer: Wed. 12 Noon Gospel Choir: Tues. 8 Pm Praise Choir And Youth Choir 3rd And 4th Fri. 6:30 PM.

107 South/Main Streets 631-473-0147 We are an accepting and caring people who invite you to share in the journey of faith with us. Email: office@pjpres.org Website: www.pjpres.org THE REV. DR. RICHARD GRAUGH Service of Darkness December 21 - 7 pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 pm Sunday Worship Service-10 am (social distancing & masks required) service is also broadcast on church FB page under “Missions and Activities” Christian Education Activities: Call 631-473-0147 Bible Study: Tuesday 2 pm via Zoom Holy Communion 1st Sunday of the Month Hot meals, groceries & clothing provided on a take out basis by Welcome Friends on Fridays 4-5:30 pm Call the church office or visit our website for current activities and events. NYS Certified Preschool and Daycare The purpose of First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson is, with God’s help, to share the joy & good news of Jesus Christ with the congregation, visitors and the community at large; to provide comfort to those in need and hope to those in despair; and to seek justice for all God’s people.

SETAUKET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 160 Main Street, Corner of 25A and Main Street East Setauket 631-941-4167 REV. STEVEN KIM, PASTOR Sunday Worship Service Indoor at 10am Services are streamed online @ www. setauketumc.org and livestreamed on Facebook Christmas Cantata Service, December 19th @10:00am Christmas Eve Service, December 24th @7:00pm Holy Communion 1st Sunday of Month Mary Martha Circle (Women’s Ministry) meets every 2nd Tuesday each month at 1pm No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you’re welcome here!

Quaker S E TA U K E T P R E S B Y T E R I A N CHURCH

To be listed in the Religious Directory please call 631–751–7663

THE REV. KATE JONES CALONE, INTERIM PASTOR THE REV. ASHLEY MCFAUL-ERWIN, COMMUNITY OUTREACH PASTOR Friday, December 24th, Christmas Eve. 10:30AM Children’s service 2-3 PM Blessing of the Animals (church parking lot circle) 4:30PM* An informal service of Lessons and Carols 7:30PM* Traditional Candlelight Worship Service 11:00PM* Candlelight and Communion Service *Services will be live streamed (see website) Due to COVID protocols, space is limited at Christmas Eve services. Please make a reservation here or by calling 631-941-4271. In- person worshipping in church sanctuary Sundays at 9:30 AM. Masks required-social distancing, Childcare available, Basic live streaming of the service. Link available on our website Sunday mornings. website:setauketpresbyterian.org Bell Choir All ringers welcome Sunday morning Sunday school Setauket Presbyterian Pre-School, ages 2-5 www.setauketpreschool.org Open Door Exchange (furniture ministry) Opendoorexchange.org 631-751-0176 For all program information visit our website, email the church Setauketpresbyterian@verizon. net Follow us on FB.

5 Caroline Avenue ~ On the Village Green 631- 941-4271 Celebrating and Sharing the love of God since 1660.

QUAKER

RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS

Conscience Bay Meeting 4 Friends Way, St. James 11780 631-928-2768 www.consciencebayquakers.org

We gather in silent worship seeking God,/the Inner Light/Spirit. We’re guided by the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship. In-person worship blended with virtual worship. Monthly discussions, Sept.June. Religious education for children. Sept.-June, 11 a.m.; July-Aug., 10 a.m. All are welcome. See our website.

Unitarian Universalist UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP AT STONY BROOK 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket 631-751-0297 uufsb.org office@uufsb.org REV. MARGARET H. ALLEN (MINISTER@UUFSB.ORG) Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Go to uufsb.org for live-streamed YouTube link.worship services. Due to the ongoing pandemic, in-person attendance is limited to 50 people, and all in-person attendees must show proof of vaccination Go to uufsb.org to register in advance. Holiday Schedule (go to uufsb.org for YouTube link): 12/19 A Winter Solstice Service - “Blaze”: 10:30 a.m. 12/24 Candlelight Christmas Eve Service “Glad Tidings”: 7:00 p.m.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B21

SBU SPORTSWEEK TOMORROW IS FRIDAY – WEAR RED ON CAMPUS!

DEC. 16 TO DEC. 22, 2021

STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY

Men's basketball makes it four wins with Bryant triumph

Leading by as much as 18, the Stony Brook men's basketball team earned its fourth win in five tries on Dec. 11, knocking off NEC foe Bryant 86-78 in front of 1,930 fans at Island Federal Arena. Anthony Roberts led five Seawolves in double figures with 20 points on 6-for-14 shooting, including hitting a trio of triples. Tykei Greene was one off the Roberts team-high, sitting with 19 points on 6-for-8 shooting. He finished with the same ratio at the free throw line. After Bryant cut the lead to six with 8:57 left, the Seawolves rattled off a 16-4 run to build its largest lead at 18 with 3:41 to go in the half. The hosts made six of their eight shots during that span, including two of its three attempts from 3-point land and were able to force four Bryant turnovers.

#15 Anthony Roberts takes control of the ball during Saturday's game. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

In the second half, the Seawolves survived multiple attempts at a Bryant comeback, as the visitors brought the Stony Brook lead to three on multiple occasions but were never able to

Women’s basketball knocks off Penn 75-69 For the third time in its last four games, the Stony Brook University women's basketball team (8-1) had at least four student-athletes score in double figures en route to a victory. The Seawolves knocked off Penn (4-7), 75-69, on Dec. 10 inside Island Federal Arena behind the quartet of graduate forward India Pagan, junior guard Gigi Gonzalez, senior guard Earlette Scott, and graduate forward Leighah-Amori Wool all scoring in doubledigits. Pagan led the way with a season-high 20 points on an efficient 8-of-15 shooting from the floor as she dominated down low. Gonzalez finished the game with 14 points and did a bulk of her damage in the contest in the second half as she totaled nine points over the final 20 minutes. Scott and Wool each added 10 points apiece as they helped guide the Seawolves to their eighth victory of the season. After a back and forth first half, Stony Brook used a 12-0 scoring run that carried over from the first half into the second to build its lead.

bring it even. Stony Brook used an 8-0 spurt over 88 seconds to extend its lead back to double digits at the midway mark of the half and held the distance the rest of the way.

"It was a really tough ball game. Bryant plays super fast, they race it down your throat, they play really hard... it's a very good program. Our prep wasn't great going into it with some of the same issues but give Bryant a bunch of credit with the guys they lost. They hung around the whole time and had a chance to steal the game. Great job for them and it was a great win for us," said head coach Geno Ford. "Every game is hard. Even when we have a lead, someone can cut it so we are showing we can be mentally tough and pull through these close, tough games and that's definitely a positive going forward. Getting back in transition tonight was key for us because that was one thing that never stopped and I think we did a good job," said Roberts.

The team celebrates after Friday night's game

Sara DiStefano named America East Diver of the Week For the first time this season sophomore diver Sara DiStefano has been named America East Diver of the Week as announced by the conference office on Dec. 7. DiStefano takes home the honor after a strong performance in the Blue Devil Invite Dec. 4 and 5. The sophomore earned two scoring finishes at the Blue Devil Invite to help propel Stony Brook to a first-place overall finish. DiStefano placed seventh overall in the 3-meter dive with a total score of 196.15. On Sunday, she finished with a final score of 200.05 in the 1-meter dive, which was good for a fifth-place overall finish in the finals. The Stony Brook swimming and diving team is back in action on Jan. 22 when they hit the road to compete against Rider in Newark, N.J.

Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

SBU Seawolves Home Games MEN’S BASKETBALL

The Seawolves were able to go ahead, 43-36, at the conclusion of the scoring spurt. Following that run, Stony Brook never looked back as it led for the remainder of the contest and secured its conference leading eighth win of the season. The Seawolves' lead grew to as large as 13 points in the fourth quarter as Gonzalez gave Stony Brook its biggest advantage of the game as she converted a driving layup with 6:35 to play. Penn responded and got within five points of the lead with 4:52 to play in the game,

but the Seawolves were able to fend off the Quakers' come-from-behind attempt. "I'm proud of how we found a way to win – we were resilient today. We've had a lot of moving pieces and parts; I'm really glad that they locked in for 40 minutes and were able to be resilient, kept fighting, and found a way. I'm pleased to get a win right before we go on a long break. Overall, I'm just proud of the way they keep being resilient, growing, and pushing through all the adversity that we had," said head coach Ashley Langford.

Dec. 18 vs. Saint Peters 6:30 p.m. Dec. 29 vs. Farmingdale 6:30 p.m. Jan. 6 vs. UMBC 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8 vs. Maine 2 p.m. Jan. 15 vs. New Hampshire 6:30 p.m.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL. Jan. 2 vs. Hartford Jan. 12 vs. Vermont Jan. 19 vs. Binghamton Jan. 22 vs. Albany

Content for this page provided by Stony Brook University and printed as a service to our advertiser.

2 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m.

*Please note this schedule can change at any time. Visit www.stonybrookathletics.com for tickets and any last minute cancellations.

PAGE B22 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021

KIDS KORNER Programs Holiday Train Display

Historic Longwood Estate, Longwood Road & Smith Road, Ridge will present a beautiful holiday train display Dec. 16 to 18 and Dec. 26 to 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids can play an "I Spy" game to find hidden items in the display. Free. Call 924-1820.

Take a bird to lunch

Harbor Country Day School annual toy drive a success Harbor Country Day School paid a visit to Long Island Elite Limousines in St. James to deliver more than 200 toys donated to the Suffolk County Toys for Tots program on Dec. 10. The toys were donated by Harbor Country Day School families as part of the Student Council’s annual toy drive. Given the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years, there was an even

greater need for donations than usual. The school has contributed to the Toys for Tots drive since 1998, when former Harbor employee and former Marine Mike Guido instituted the program. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the Toys for Tots drive and to work… on such a wonderful program,” said John Cissel, Head of School for Harbor Country Day School.

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown presents a family program, Take. A Bird to Lunch, on Dec. 18 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. With the cold months here, many birds have either been migrating south, or bulking up for the long winter ahead. You can help by providing them with a good meal! Using natural materials, you will make bird feeders to hang in your yard to give the migrating birds, as well as the year long residents an extra boost! $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 265-1054.

Gingerbread House Workshop

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket will host Gingerbread House Workshops for children ages 4 to 9 on Dec. 18 and 19 at 10 a.m. and again at 12:45 p.m. The two-hour workshop consists of several gingerbread activities that incorporate the spirit of the farm during the holidays. Each child will go home with a gingerbread home and many crafts made on the farm. $40 per child. Advance registration required by calling 689-8172 or by visiting www.bennersfarm.com.

Star Quest!

FOR A LIMITED TIME $0 Enrollment fee $19.98/month Call 631 751-6100 384 Mark Tree Rd. E. Setauket, NY 11733

61790

New! Calling brave explorers! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor presents Star Quest! from Dec. 16 to 19 and Dec 26 to 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hunt for star constellations around the museum with a spyglass to navigate your journey, just like mariners at sea. Solve puzzles to find your reward — a glittery star lantern you can decorate in our workshop to light your way home. For ages 5 and older. Admission fee plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418 for further details.

Theater ‘Frozen Jr.’

Do you want to build a snowman? The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown will present Frozen Jr. from Nov. 20 to Jan. 17. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters

A holiday train display will be up at Longwood Estate through Dec. 31. Photo courtesy of Longwood Estate

and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $25. Call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

The holidays have arrived at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 20 to Dec. 26. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As Santa’s 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. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www. theatrethree.com.

'Frosty'

Tis the season! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Frosty from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ebenezer Pierpot and an evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Dad, 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! Tickets are $20. To order, call 2612900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

FILM

Polar Express screening

The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce will host screenings of The Polar Express in the Chamber Train Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. and Dec. 18 at noon, 3 and 6 p.m. $15 per person includes popcorn, a cookie and hot cocoa. To reserve your tickets, visit www.pjstchamber.com.

All numbers are in (631) area code unless noted.

DECEMBER 16, 2021 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE B23

Theatre Talk

'I love being able to look out into the audience and see the joy on people’s faces. A lot of people sing along and kids come dressed in costume.' — LORELAI MUCCIOLO

with Leah Kelly and Lorelai Mucciolo of SPAC's Frozen Jr. BY MELISSA ARNOLD

t might seem hard to believe, but it’s only been eight years since Disney’s Frozen was released, captivating all ages and making Elsa and Anna household names. Children of previous generations might have idolized Belle or Cinderella, but now it’s all about the icy queen and her bighearted sister. The majority of girls under 20 would likely admit to belting out the now iconic “Let It Go” a time or two. Among those Frozen superfans are Leah Kelly and Lorelai Mucciolo, who star as Elsa and Anna in the Smithtown Performing Art Center’s production of the stage adaptation for kids, Frozen Jr. The pair have an effortless chemistry onstage, and when you get to know them it’s easy to see why. Behind the scenes, they’ve been friends for years, and both call Smithtown Performing Arts Center (SPAC) their second home. Some of Lorelai's (Anna) earliest memories are of toddling around the theater — her parents were involved there before she was even born. She admits she was “stubborn” when her family suggested she give performing a try, despite growing up at the foot of the stage.

Above from left, Leah Kelly and Lorelai Mucciolo in scenes from Frozen Jr. Photos by Courtney Braun

'They are so kind — truly each other’s biggest supporters, and they’re wonderful role models for others.' — COURTNEY BRAUN

'Being part of a cast is very unifying, and you get to connect with an audience emotionally, which is a great feeling.' — LEAH KELLY “I actually had terrible stage fright. I was really nervous to try acting, but once I got up there I realized it was the best thing ever. It just felt right,” said Lorelai, a 15-year-old sophomore at East Islip High School. Leah Kelly, who plays Elsa, also needed a little coaxing to make her acting debut. “I started off with dance when I was 3 years old, but I was always singing,” said Leah, a 17-year-old senior at Smithtown West High

School. “One day, my mom found me singing along to the movie Tangled while I played with my Barbies, and she asked if I wanted to take a singing class. I was and am a little on the shy side, so I was reluctant, but she suggested I go with a friend.” It was through those singing classes at SPAC that Leah met her current voice teacher, future directors and a host of new friends,

including Lorelai. The two girls have known each other for almost 10 years now, often sharing the stage. But this is the first time they’ve played sisters. Frozen Jr. director Courtney Braun has watched Leah and Lorelai blossom into young women with confidence and grace. Braun, who is pursuing a graduate degree in social work from Stony Brook University, found her own voice on the SPAC stage as a girl. “I first became a part of the theater’s ‘Youth Experiencing Arts’ program when I was six years old. We were doing Grease, and I showed up in a pink poodle skirt and a high ponytail, ready to go,” she recalled. “I’ve met

so many wonderful people here, including my best friend.” Braun was in elementary school when she met Lorelai for the first time — she was an infant then. Years later, Braun met Leah during a production of The Wizard of Oz. “I’ve always been amazed by them. They are so kind — truly each other’s biggest supporters, and they’re wonderful role models for others,” Braun said of the girls. This production of Frozen Jr. was originally planned for two years ago, long before COVID-19 shuttered theaters. Leah and Lorelai eagerly awaited their chance to audition, and when the time finally came, Braun felt that the girls were natural fits for Elsa and Anna. “Leah is a force to be reckoned with. For Elsa, I was looking for a strong personality that was also able to show the occasional insecurity when it’s called for, and Leah accomplishes that so well,” Braun explained. “And Lorelai has all of the sweet, bubbly, unique personality quirks that make us love the character Anna — she can be a little quiet when you meet her, but as soon as she takes the stage, it’s game on. She has such deep insights.” For the girls, it’s a welcome relief to be back onstage, especially after enduring canceled shows and remote learning. "Being part of a cast is very unifying, and you get to connect with an audience emotionally, which is a great feeling," said Leah who is enjoying her time in Frozen Jr. “I love the relationship that’s mended between Anna and Elsa, despite their differences. They learn to work through things together instead of on their own,” she said. “Coming out of the pandemic, I feel like we can all relate to feeling isolated and alone.” Lorelai said that even with outdoor theater opportunities, there’s no replacement for being at SPAC. “I love being able to look out into the audience and see the joy on people’s faces. A lot of people sing along and kids come dressed in costume,” she said. “There’s something about getting to go onstage and be somebody else for a while that I really enjoy — it’s like professional make believe, and for lack of a better word, it’s magical.” Frozen Jr. is running now through Jan. 17, 2022 at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main Street, Smithtown. Tickets are $25. For showtimes, ticket purchases and information, visit www.smithtownpac.org or call 631-724-3700.

SEAWOLVES UNITED SEAWOLVES BASKETBALL TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!

Full-season, partial-plan and individual game tickets are on sale. Special pricing is available for youth groups, birthday parties and corporate outings. Join us in Island Federal Arena for the most electrifying game-day experience on the Island! With in-game contests, fan giveaways, postgame autograph sessions and hospitality areas, Seawolves Basketball has something for everyone.

Tickets: StonyBrookAthletics.com/Tickets or call (631) 632-WOLF. @SBAthletics Stony Brook Seawolves Basketball — We Are Long Island’s Team! 61820

Stony Brook University/SUNY is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer. 21100525

PAGE B24 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • DECEMBER 16, 2021