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Kids Korner: Dec. 22 to 29, 2022

by Heidi Sutton - December 22, 2022

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Sweetbriar holiday break — Holiday Discovery Days are back at Sweetbriar Nature Center from Dec. 26 to 30.

PROGRAMS

Holiday Open Play

Join the Long Island Explorium, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson for a Holiday Open Play on Dec. 23 and from Dec. 26 to 30 from 1 to 5 p.m. Celebrate STEM, Space, and Math with hands-on activities, crafts, and more with admission fee. Call 331-3277 or visit www.longislandexplorium.org.

Winter Solstice Workshops

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 80 Little Neck Road, Centerport will offer two Winter Solstice Celebration workshops for children in grades K-4 including Dec. 27 (Solstice Lantern & Planetarium Show) and Dec. 28 (Bulb Botany and Winter Blooms) from 10 a.m. to noon. Fee is $20 per child per workshop. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Holiday Break at the Hatchery

Enjoy your holiday break with a visit to the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor to make crafts on on Dec. 26 (Make a Mosaic); Dec. 28 (Pinecone Ornaments); and Dec. 30 (Homemade Playdough) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All activities will be held outdoors and are free with museum admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors and $5 children ages 3 to 12. Call 516-692-6768 for more information.

Toys, Toys, Toys!

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor presents a drop-in program, Toys, Toys, Toys!, on Dec. 27 and 30 from noon to 3 p.m. Thinking about toys this season? Find out what kids were playing with in nineteenth-century America — and nothing needed charging! Play with a range of historic toys, then create and decorate some old-fashioned toys to take home with you. Cost is admission fee plus $10. Call 367-3418.

Holiday Discovery Days

Holiday Discovery Days are back at Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown from Dec. 26 to 30. Sweetbriar’s experienced educators will help open up the wonders of the natural world for children ages 6 to 11 through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more with a different theme each day. $85/day or $375/week. For further details and to register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. Call 979-6344 for more info.

FILM

‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas on Dec. 25 at noon. The animated film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world” and turns his attention to Christmas. Rated PG. Tickets are $12 adults, $5 children at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents the holiday musical Barnaby Saves Christmas through Dec. 30. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As our littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. Tickets are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown kicks off the holiday season with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. from Nov. 19 to Jan. 22 including Dec. 26 to Dec. 30 at 1 p.m. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Frosty’

A perennial favorite, Frosty returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. from Nov. 26 to Dec. 24 and daily from Dec. 26 to 31. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Tyco’s Tickle Me Elmo was the hottest holiday toy 25 years ago

by TBR Staff - December 21, 2022

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christmas-g5d6da8c27_1920 — Pixabay photo

It’s easy for adults to experience a little nostalgia when holiday shopping for their children. The holiday season has long been considered a special time of year, and much of that magic can be traced to the joy kids feel when unwrapping gifts from mom, dad and, of course, Santa Claus. Many parents who now have youngsters at home grew up in the 1990s. When such moms and dads are shopping for holiday gifts this season, they might wonder what was the must-have item for them back when they anxiously awaited the arrival of Christmas morning?

According to Insider.com, who worked in conjunction with the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, 1996 was the year of “Tickle Me Elmo.” This ticklish toy was the most sought-after item of the 1996 holiday seasons, and it was so popular that retailers experienced shortage and the Tyco toy became the hardest to find toy since the Cabbage Patch Kids craze in 1983.

Those shortages led to some surprising sales on the secondary market, with figures that will undoubtedly drop some jaws even now, a quarter century after the Tickle Me Elmo craze erupted.

Though the Tickle Me Elmo doll retailed for around $30 in 1996, some parents intent on getting their youngsters the most in-demand gift that year reportedly spent more than $1,500 on a single doll. To put that latter figure into perspective, data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that the average price of a new car in 1996 was $18,525. And according to Yahoo! Finance, drivers in the market for a used car in 1996 could have purchased a 1986 four-door Oldsmobile for just over $2,600.

Simple ways to involve kids in holiday decorating

by TBR Staff - December 21, 2022

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Millions of people across the globe feel that the holiday season is a magical time of year. Though those people come from all walks of life, it’s likely that no group is as taken by the unique spirit of the holiday season as much as children.

Whether they’re looking forward to Santa’s arrival or preparing for a school holiday pageant, kids have much to be excited about come December. Parents can channel that enthusiasm by involving kids when decorating around the house this holiday season.

Make homemade ornaments. The options are limitless when making holiday ornaments with children. From simple ornaments made from pine cones picked up outside to more complex projects designed for children nearing adolescence, parents can look to the internet to find design ideas and directions for hundreds of ornaments.

Make some homemade garlands. Garlands are another great way for your kids to help with the Christmas decorations. And there are so many great ways your kids can make their own garlands! Make a classic popcorn garland by threading pieces of popcorn on a string while you watch your favorite Christmas movie.

Let them pick a new decoration. When you’re out shopping for new Christmas decorations, give your kid a chance to pick a new piece of decor to add to your home. Let them look through the aisles to see what kind of decoration they want to add to your existing décor. When they pick something out, ask them where they want it to go inside your home.

Let kids lead the way when decorating the tree. Families that celebrate Christmas can let kids lead the way when decorating their Christmas tree. Kids are likely to spend the weeks leading up to Santa’s arrival gazing in awe at the tree, and knowing they decided where to place the various ornaments on it might make the season even more special for youngsters.

Take kids along when choosing lawn ornaments. It’s not safe to involve children when installing lighting displays, but kids will get a kick out of choosing inflatable lawn decorations and other items to place around the yard. Take kids along when buying new items and then seek their input when placing Frosty, Santa and his reindeer friends around the yard.

Include kids in culinary decor. Many celebrants cannot imagine a holiday season without gingerbread houses and cookies. These traditions provide another great opportunity to involve children in holiday decorating.

Set aside some time to make homemade gingerbread houses, which can be used as decorations before they’re ultimately eaten. Cookies may not have the shelf life of a typical gingerbread house, but kids can pitch in and decorate cookies prior to a holiday party or family meal.

Classic family holiday movies to stream this season

by Heidi Sutton - December 21, 2022

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'Rudolph' — Hermes the elf and Rudolph in a scene from the classic 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.'

Various traditions take center stage during the holiday season. One of those traditions may be sitting down and enjoying any of a number of timeless holiday movies. Film fans have their own ideas about the best films to watch during the holidays, but the following classic movies are some kids and adults can enjoy together.

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) In Frank Capra’s iconic film, an angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. The film ranks #11 on the American Film Institute’s original list of the 100 Greatest American Films of All Time.

Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) The youngest of Santa Claus’s reindeer, Rudolph uses his luminous red nose to lead the reindeer team and guide Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Evein this iconic stop-motion animation film

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) It’s Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration with the extended family. Things never run smoothly for Clark but he manages to keep going knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.

Home Alone (1990) Kevin! An eight-year-old troublemaker must protect his house from a pair of burglars when he is accidentally left home alone by his family during Christmas vacation.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) This beloved beloved seasonal staple follows good ol’ Charlie Brown as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

Elf (2003): As a youngster, Buddy was magically transported to the North Pole and raised by Santa’s elves. As an adult, he’s determined to find his real dad in New York City and find a way to fit in.

A Christmas Story (1983) Set in December 1940, the film is presented in a series of vignettes, with narration provided by the adult Ralphie Parker reminiscing when he was nine years old in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana and wanted only one thing for Christmas: a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) After a divorced New York mother hires a nice old man to play Santa Claus at Macy’s, she is startled by his claim to be the genuine article.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 & 2000) Based on the 1957 children’s book of the same name by Dr. Seuss, the film tells the story of the Grinch, who tries to ruin Christmas for the townsfolk of Whoville below his mountain hideaway.

The Polar Express (2004): A young boy enjoys a magical adventure to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express train. He learns about the true spirit of the holidays and the value of bravery and friendship along the way.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992): Charles Dickens’ classic story about a bitter miser might be a little frightening for young children to enjoy in its more theatrical offerings. However, when the Muppet characters tell their version of the classic tale, the story becomes much more family-friendly.

Port Jefferson students share joy and music at Dickens Festival

by Press Release - December 18, 2022

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PJ Dickens — Port Jefferson School District students with music teacher Edward Pisano (right). Photo courtesy PJSD

Members of the Port Jefferson School District music and fine arts department joined in the festivities of the annual Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson Village Dec. 2-4.

Music students and teachers entertained the spectators with seasonal songs during various performances throughout the village. Students in the district’s Drama Club assisted Santa at the Village Center in the elf workshop and served as background actors in the Stony Brook University film crew taping of the event.

“They did a fantastic job of interacting with the villagers and students and children just waiting to see Santa,” drama club adviser Tony Butera said.

The unique event was another opportunity for teachers and students to share their Port Jefferson School District award-winning talents in a public setting.

Comsewogue Marine comes home

by Press Release - December 17, 2022

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Comsewogue High School alum Jair Lopez, Class of 2022, became a United States Marine on Dec. 2, and returned to Comsewogue High School on Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Lopez was welcomed by a crowd of students, teachers and staff. “There was so much love and respect displayed by all of our Comsewogue Warriors for him,” said Jennifer Quinn, superintendent of schools.

Lopez recently graduated in June. When he spoke, he thanked his teachers for not giving up on him and keeping him pointed in the right direction.

Holiday Train Display heads to Longwood Estate

by Heidi Sutton - December 17, 2022

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Holiday-Train-Longwood — Photo from Longwood Estate

Looking for a fun holiday activity with the kids? Longwood Estate, corner of Longwood Road and Smith Road in Ridge, presents its annual Holiday Train display on Dec. 17 and 18 and Dec. 26 to 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participate in an “I Spy” game and try to find all the hidden items in the display. Free. Call 631-924-1820 for more info.

Comsewogue Warriors cage Rocky Point Eagles

by Bill Landon - December 16, 2022

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The Rocky Point Eagles had their hands full, facing a stout defense in a road game against Comsewogue.

In this Div. IV matchup on Thursday, Dec. 15, the Warriors broke out early, taking a 22-point lead going into the halftime break. The Eagles managed to outscore Comsewogue in the third quarter, but the Warriors slammed the door in the fourth, putting the game away, 49-29.

Leela Smith led the Eagles with 13 points, Julia Koprowski scored six and teammate McKenzie Moeller netted five.

Danielle McGuire topped the scoring chart for the Warriors with four triples and a field goal for 14 points. Hannah Ellis notched 11 and Lalynn Kirschenheuter banked 10.

The win lifts the Warriors to 3-1 in their division. They return to action on Monday, Dec. 19, with a road game against Westhampton. The Eagles travel to Port Jefferson Tuesday, Dec. 20. Game times are 4 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., respectively.

Suffolk County motorcycle club raises $6,000 for Ronald McDonald House

by Press Release - December 15, 2022

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Approximately 200 members of the Suffolk County “HOG” (Harley Owners Group) made the 40 mile ride from Oakdale to New Hyde Park on their 4^th Annual Holiday Motorcycle Ride to bring toys and cheer to families staying at the Ronald McDonald House on Dec. 12.

The ride delivered dozens of toys that were given out by Santa Claus and raised more than $6,000 for the construction of a new Ronald McDonald House to be located in Suffolk County to serve families there.

The event is the biggest of the year for the Suffolk County HOG group.

“These kids in the hospital are very sick and their families are under a lot of stress,” said Nicholas Nigro, Organizer of the Annual HOG ride. “They should be able to celebrate for a day. If it brings a smile to their face for one day, that’s all we want to do.”

The event started with a gathering of the riders at the Suffolk County Harley Davidson, located at 4020 Sunrise Hwy, Oakdale. Members packed the toys on a three-wheeled motorcycle “sleigh” and in a group of Jeeps and the convoy of riders departed at approximately 11 a.m.

The group traveled along Sunrise Highway and Ocean Parkway, with a scenic view of the beach, before turning north toward the Ronald McDonald House, located at 267-07 76th Ave, Queens, arriving at approximately noon.

Riders disembarked and distributed toys to the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.

“Events like today put smiles on the faces of the families that stay here and it’s just so special,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NYM. “We will collect enough toys in the last 30 days of the year to last us all of next year. Every time a child comes back to their room there’s something waiting for them.”

Centereach Cougars overcome Rocky Point Eagles during non-league contest

by Bill Landon - December 15, 2022

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After dropping their season opener to Bayport, the Cougars of Centereach looked to get into the win column during a road game against Rocky Point. They did just that, winning 46-28 in the non-league contest Wednesday, Dec. 7.

The Eagles, fresh off their win over Babylon the day before, struggled against the Centereach defensive press.

The underclassmen led the way for the Cougars, with sophomore Meaghan Grieco hitting five field goals and a free throw. Freshman Hayley Torres nailed three triples and a pair of free throws. Grieco and Torres matched one another in scoring, with 11 points apiece.

Rocky Point senior Leela Smith scored seven points for the Eagles. Sarah May added five and McKenzie Moeller netted four points.

Centereach had another non-league contest before beginning league play with a road game against Smithtown East on Dec. 12.

The Eagles retook the court on Dec. 13 with a road game against Westhampton, opening their league season play.

— Photos by Bill Landon

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