On Thursday, December 12, the descendants of Frederick C. Griswold, inventor of the famous Griswold Film Splicer, visited Mr. Scrooge at his current home at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson.
The splicer was invented in the former machine shop, which now houses the Ronald F. Peierls Theatre and Griswold’s Café. The Griswold family played an integral role in shaping Port Jefferson Village into the community we now call home.
In addition to owning the machine shop, the Griswold’s were involved in shipbuilding, carriage building, the fire department, fishing, lobstering, and operated various businesses in Port Jefferson until the 1970s, with a generation-spanning influence. The newest members of the Griswold family—Christopher (Fred’s great grand nephew), his wife Jessica, and their three children, Jaxon, Colton, and Nash—attended Theatre Three’s 40th annual production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.
The Griswold family was joined by the theatre’s Artistic Associate, Douglas Quattrock; Mr. Scrooge (a.k.a. Executive Artistic Director, Jeffrey Sanzel); Managing Director, Vivian Koutrakos; and Board of Directors President, Andrew Markowitz.
First-year head coach Billy Cosh has been recognized as the 2024 AFCA FCS Coach of the Year, a significant milestone following Stony Brook’s remarkable turnaround season. This prestigious honor, announced earlier today by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), makes Cosh the first head coach in program history and second ever first-year FCS head coach to receive this accolade.
This marks the third Coach of the Year award for Cosh this season. Previously, he was named the 2024 CAA Coach of the Year and the 2024 AFCA Regional Coach of the Year. After inheriting a team that endured a winless 2023 campaign, Cosh led the Seawolves to their best season since 2017. At just 32 years old, Cosh is the second-youngest coach in Division I football and has revitalized a program that was projected to finish last in the CAA Preseason Coaches Poll. Under his leadership, Stony Brook achieved an impressive 8-4 overall record (5-3 CAA), marking their first winning season since 2018 and their highest national ranking in six years.
This season represents the most significant turnaround in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), with Stony Brook improving from a 0-10 record in 2023 to 8-4 in 2024. Cosh’s eight victories also place him among the top-performing first-year head coaches in FCS history, and he is now the fastest head coach in program history to reach this milestone.
Stony Brook’s offensive and defensive statistics saw dramatic improvements under Cosh’s leadership. On offense, the Seawolves improved their scoring average from 15.2 points per game in 2023 to 29.6 points per game in 2024. They also increased their average total yards from 314.2 to 403.9, rushing yards from 104.1 to 170.3, and passing yards from 210.1 to 223.6. The team’s touchdown total soared from 19 in 2023 to 44 in 2024.
Defensively, the Seawolves allowed just 24.0 points per game this season, compared to 39.2 points per game in 2023. They also reduced total yards allowed per game from 470.7 to 373.5 and limited opponents to 32 touchdowns compared to the 53 allowed last year.
Under Cosh’s leadership, Stony Brook has excelled on both sides of the ball, ranking among the top 10 in FCS for several key categories: red zone defense (70%), red zone offense (90.2%), time of possession (32:27), fumbles recovered (14), turnover margin (0.83), and turnovers gained (26). The team also ranked in the top three in the CAA for fourth-down conversion percentage (63.6%), blocked punts (1), blocked punts allowed (0), passes intercepted (12), punt return defense (6.2), scoring offense (29.7), tackles for loss allowed (4.5), and several other categories, including time of possession, turnover margin, red zone offense, red zone defense, and fumbles recovered.
Cosh’s guidance has elevated several players to national recognition. Running back Roland Dempster became only the second player in program history to be nominated for the Walter Payton Award and earned First Team All-CAA honors. Defensive lineman Rushawn Lawrence also secured First Team All-CAA recognition. Tight end Cal Redman, kicker Enda Kirby, and cornerback Rudy Silvera were named to the Second Team All-CAA, while offensive linemen Niko Papic and AJ Roberts earned spots on the All-CAA Third Team.
The head coach for the Seawolves and Keiser’s Myles Russ join Colorado Mines’ Brandon Moore, Richmond’s Mike London and Valdosta State’s David Dean as the only coaches to earn AFCA National Coach of the Year honors intheir first season as a head coach. Dean was the Division II winner in 2007, London was the FCS winner in 2008, and Moore was the Division II winner in 2022.
The winners are selected by a vote of the Active AFCA members at four-year schools in the Association’s five divisions. The AFCA has named a Coach of the Year since 1935. The AFCA Coach of the Year award is the oldest and most prestigious of all the Coach of the Year awards and is the only one chosen exclusively by coaches.
The current balloting procedure involves selection of 25 regional winners: five regional winners in each of the five divisions – FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III and NAIA, who become finalist for national coach of the year. Following regional voting, five national winners – one from each division – are chosen. The other recipients for the 2024 AFCA Coach of the Year were Indiana’s Curt Cignetti (FBS), Valdosta State’s Tremaine Jackson (Division II), Salisbury’s Sherman Wood (Division III) and Keiser’s Myles Russ (NAIA).
To purchase season tickets, call 631-632-WOLF (9653) or email the ticket office at [email protected].
Dallysshya Moreno looks to pass the ball during Wednesday's game. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics
The Stony Brook women’s basketball team returned to the Island on Dec. 18 with a 67-29 victory over Georgian Court. The Lions were held to just 25 percent from the field for a 12-for-47 shooting performance as the Seawolves’ defense dominated with 18 forced turnovers.
Stony Brook had three players score in double figures, led by Zaida Gonzalez, who had 17 points and six rebounds. Dallysshya Moreno recorded her first career double-double off the bench with a career-high 16 points and 11 rebounds. Breauna Ware chipped in as well with 13 points, six rebounds, and a team-high five assists and three steals.
Lauren Filien helped on the boards, grabbing a team-high 12 boards as Shamarla King added seven of her own as the Seawolves held a 58-20 advantage over Georgian Court.
Ioanna Giannopoulou made her collegiate debut with Stony Brook, adding a three-point bucket with less than 10 seconds to go in the contest.
After falling behind 8-6, Stony Brook went on an 11-0 run with 5:12 left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Moreno, to take a 17-8 lead. The Seawolves then lost some of that lead but still entered the quarter break with a 17-9 advantage. Stony Brook did most of its first quarter damage scoring 14 points in the paint.
Stony Brook kept its first quarter lead intact before going on an 8-0 run starting at the 3:04 mark in the second period, highlighted by a bucket from Lauren Filien, to increase its lead to 32-16, a score that would hold until halftime. Stony Brook was strong from deep in the period, knocking down two three-point shots to account for six of its 15 points.
Following intermission, Stony Brook continued to expand its advantage, pushing it to 41-20 before going on a 6-0 run, punctuated by a basket from Moreno, to expand its lead further to 47-20 with 14 seconds to go. Stony Brook continued to play well near the basket, scoring 10 of its 15 points in the paint during the third quarter.
Stony Brook held a scoring advantage going on a 13-0 run, finished off by Giannopoulou’s three, to grow the lead to 67-29 with five seconds to go in the contest, a score which would hold for the rest of the game. Stony Brook took advantage of its opportunities in the post, scoring 14 of its 20 points in the paint highlighted by Moreno.
“Great win for our team! Feels good to be back in the win column. Proud of our team’s defensive effort of holding them to single digits each quarter. We continue to stress the importance of getting multiple stops in a row and limiting opponents offensive rebounds and we showed growth in that area. We finished 21-0 on the offensive glass and finished the night with 58 total. Rebounding is a measuring stick of our effort so very pleased with that tonight. There are areas we must still improve, but we will enjoy this win tonight and move on and focus on Cornell tomorrow,” noted head coach Joy McCorvey postgame.
The team closes out the year on Sunday, Dec. 22 at home against Cornell at 1 p.m. This will be the eighth meeting between the Seawolves and Big Red in program history. Coverage is set to be available on SNY and FloCollege.
Andre Snoddy looks to pass the ball during Saturday's game.
Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics
Stony Brook men’s basketball picked up a road win over Rider in Lawrenceville, N.J. on Dec. 14, topping the Broncs 72-55 behind a 20-point performance by CJ Luster II and Andre Snoddy’s second double-double of the season.
The two sides were deadlocked 8-8 through seven minutes of action to open the contest. Stony Brook gained a six-point advantage, maintaining it until a 7-0 Rider run that put the Broncs ahead, 21-20, with five minutes to play in the half.
After grabbing a 25-22 lead, Stony Brook went on a 9-0 run with 1:36 left in the first half, culminating in a three from Luster, to increase its lead to 34-22.
The Seawolves then lost some of that lead, but still entered halftime with a 34-24 advantage. Stony Brook relied on its three-point shooting in the period, knocking down seven shots to account for 21 of its 34 points. Rider trimmed its deficit to five points, but Stony Brook responded with a 12-0 run, finished off by a Joe Octave jumper, to grow the lead to 50-33 with 12:57 to go in the contest.
Stony Brook’s lead grew to as large as 19 points down the stretch, maintaining a double-digit advantage for the remainder of the contest. The Seawolves held on to secure the 72-55 win. Stony Brook shot well again from three-point range in the half, hitting six shots from deep to score 18 of its 38 points.
“Great win for the guys. We have been getting better in practice, but we needed a solid game performance from a confidence perspective. I also thought that was the best game of Andre’s career, he was terrific,” head coach Geno Ford noted.
The Stony Brook women’s basketball team was defeated by the University at Buffalo, 72-55, on Dec. 14 at Alumni Arena. Shamarla King registered a double-double as Breauna Ware and Janay Brantley both scored in double figures for the Seawolves.
After falling behind 10-0, Stony Brook went on a 5-0 run with 5:31 left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Brantley, to narrow its deficit. The Seawolves continued to close the gap, cutting the Buffalo lead to 17-13 by the end of the first period.
The Seawolves would find their footing and ultimately tie up the game and then take a one-point lead off a pair of three-pointers from Zaida Gonzalez and Ware. Buffalo pieced together some plays that gave them a 32-26 lead heading into halftime. Stony Brook tallied six three-pointers through the first half, a season-high.
The Bulls continued to increase its lead after the intermission, building a 44-28 advantage.Stony Brook then went on an 8-0 run, punctuated by a basket from Devyn Scott, to trim its deficit to 44-36 with 2:40 to go in the third. Buffalo countered and stretched its lead to 50-36 heading into the fourth.
Buffalo kept widening its lead, scoring a game-high 22 points through the fourth quarter. They constructed a 65-43 advantage before the Seawolves went on a 5-0 run to shrink the deficit to 65-48 with 2:45 to go in the contest. Stony Brook was unable to cut further into the Bulls’ lead by the end of the game.
Stony Brook cross country head coach Andy Ronan has earned his third consecutive CAA Men’s Cross Country Coach of the Year honor, as announced by the conference office on Dec. 12.
Ronan led the Seawolves to a third consecutive CAA Championship and a 13th place ranking in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Northeast Region this fall. The Seawolves captured the championship in the closest team finish in conference history, scoring 48 points to edge out second-place Northeastern (49 points) by a single point.
Stony Brook had five runners finish in the top 17, including three in the top eight. Henry Gartner (24:44.50) led the Seawolves with a fourth-place effort followed by Collin Gilstrap in fifth (24:48.3) and Steven Struk in eighth (25:02.50). Also scoring for SBU were Michael Hawkes (25:19.9) in 14th and Ethan Green (25:34.7) in 17th.
In Stony Brook’s three seasons as a member of the CAA, Ronan has produced 23 All-CAA Cross Country performers and helped the men’s squad capture the conference championship in all three years. Ronan has now been named conference coach of the year 12 times during his tenure on Long Island.
When it comes to language learning, English has a reputation for being tricky. The wide variety of complex rules, along with their many exceptions and inconsistencies, can cause significant frustration for both children and adult learners.
Long Island native Joseph L. Licari hopes to make the learning process a bit easier with his first children’s book, Mia’s Mouses. This picture book follows a young girl named Mia as she spends the day playing outside. Along the way, she encounters a group of friendly, talking mice — or as Mia incorrectly calls them, “mouses.”
The cover of ‘Mia’s Mouses’ by Joseph L. Licari
They gently work to give Mia advice about plural nouns, which opens up a whole world of questions for the young girl. She takes her confusion to school, and with a little help from her teacher, Miss Jess, Mia finally gets the hang of it. In the end, Mia eagerly shares her new skills with her mouse friends. The easy-to-read story is supported by bright, colorful illustrations by Victor Nieto. Each character’s personality shines through with unique outfits and expressive faces.
This book’s success comes from its simple rhyming style. It helps build on kids’ existing reading comprehension while helping to cement plural rules (dogs and frogs, houses and blouses). It also goes beyond the word “mice” to introduce other plural nouns with special rules, including “fish,” “people,” “men” and “children,” among others.
Mia’s Mouses is a fine resource on its own, but it’s even more useful when paired with the companion Mia’s Mouses Workbook and Coloring Book. The 40-page addition includes line-art versions of some of the book’s illustrations, along with key passages from the story. Word searches and crossword puzzles of various sizes are interspersed throughout the coloring book along with basic grammar exercises. Most of the coloring pages are single-sided, so you can easily tear out and display your little one’s hard work. One small detraction: there are no perforations, so be careful.
All told, this story and workbook are a fun way to subtly reinforce what early readers are learning at school without the feeling of doing homework. Even younger children who aren’t reading yet can get involved by coloring while an older sibling or friend does a puzzle.
Mia’s Mouses received the 2024 Pencraft Seasonal Book Award for Children in the K through 3rd Grade General category and is a Readers’ Choice Book Award Finalist. Joseph Licari deserves praise for the deep forethought that went into creating the book and workbook duo. As a former business owner and current music teacher, Licari mentors people of all ages and is focused on helping them to truly enjoy their learning experience. He is a member of the Smithtown Library Writers Group and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
Find Mia’s Mouses at your favorite online bookseller in hardcover, softcover and e-book formats. Mia’s Mouses Workbook and Coloring Book is sold separately in softcover only.
Catch a screening of 'The Nighmare Before Christmas' at the Cinema Arts Centre this Sunday.
PROGRAMS
First Steps in Nature
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on Dec. 20 at 9:30 a.m. with hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
Candledipping Workshop
TIME TO DIP Take part in a Candledipping Workshop at the Whaling Museum this week.
Lighten up! Ignite your creativity, roll up your sleeves, and create your own custom, hand-dipped candle with tinted waxes to take home with you at a drop-in Candledipping Workshop at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Design a colorful seashell candleholder for your candle to light up your home this winter! See whale blubber and oil from our collection, which were historically used for illumination. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. No registration required. 631-367-3418
Gingerbread House Workshop
Children ages 4 to 10 are invited to join Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket for a Gingerbread House workshop on Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon. This eventconsists 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. To register, call 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.
Festive Lighthouses
Did you know lighthouses were lit with whale oil? The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Festive Lighthouses drop-in workshop on Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Design and decorate a unique lighthouse of your own — complete with battery-powered tea light and mini wreath — to light up your home this winter.Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. No registration required 631-367-3418
Story & Craft with Nana Carol
The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Dec. 23 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008
Vanderbilt Winter Recess Workshops
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers two workshops for winter recess — Bulb Botany & Winter Blooms on Dec. 26 from 10 a.m. tonoon and Solstice Lantern & Planetarium Show on Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon. $20 per child, $18 members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Holiday Train Display
Town of Brookhaven’s Longwood Estate, corner of Longwood Road and Smith Road, Ridge will host a Holiday Train Display from Dec. 26 to Dec 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 event. 631-924-1820
FILM
‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas on Dec. 22 at noon. Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
THEATER
‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’
Celebrate the holidays with Barnaby Saves Christmas at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28. 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. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Frosty’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport celebrates the return of Frosty from Nov. 23 to Dec. 29. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from 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 and get Frosty to the North Pole. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Frozen Jr’
Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Jan. 18 to Feb. 23. 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. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Frozen Jr’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport kicks off the new year with a production of Frozen Jr. from Jan. 25 to March 2. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Featuring all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com
Catch a performance of 'A Christmas Carol' at Theatre Three this weekend! Photo by Steve Ayle/ Showbiz Shots
*Menorah Lightings are listed in a separate post.
Ongoing
Holiday Light Show
The Riverhead Holiday Light Show, 149 Edwards Ave., Calverton is back for its 7th season on various days from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. The largest drive-through light show in Suffolk County features dozens of dazzling displays to delight the entire family! For schedule and tickets, visit www.holidaylightshow.com.
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 Dec. 1 through Jan. 2 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free. 631-802-2160
Free admission to the LIM
From now through Dec. 22, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook invites the community to enjoy free admission to the History Museum’s LIMarts Members’ exhibition, Milestones,featuring art from over 100 local artists. Many of the featured pieces will be available for purchase — perfect for unique gifts for any art lover! The Gift Shop will also be open for all those last-minute gift needs with select items up to 50% off. The Carriage and Art Museums will be closed for the LIM’s annual winter break and will reopen on February 20, 2025, with a new exhibition in the Art Museum.For more information, call 631-751-0066 or visit www.longislandmuseum.org.
Vote for favorite holiday tree!
Cast your vote for your favorite decorated tree at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook for the holidays. This year over 45 beautifully decorated trees are showcased for you to choose from! Voting is free and ballots are available at all Stony Brook Village shops, so stop by, explore, and make your choice by Dec. 20. For more information, call 631-751-2244.
Thursday Dec. 19
Reduce Your Energy Bill
Drop by Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to speak with a PSEG representative to learn about REAP (Residential Energy Affordability Partnership), a free program for income-eligible customers, and how it can help you save energy and reduce your electric bills. No registration required. Open to all.631-928-1212
Live Nativity
Caroline Episcopal Church, 1 Dyke Road Setauket will present a live Nativity from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Witness the miracle of Christmas in the church’s historic carriage shed, with real barn animals (courtesy of Steppin’ Out Ponies), Christmas music, roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate for all! Free. 631-941-4245
Nutcracker Holiday Show
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will be presenting the Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, one of the most often performed jazz versions of the holiday classic, tonight and Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The show will feature The Jazz Loft’s 17-piece Big Band, led by Tom Manuel. Tickets are $40 adults, $35 seniors, $30 students and $25 children. www.thejazzloft.org
Native American Drumming
All Souls Church Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being.Call 631-655-7798 for more information.
Stand-Up/Sit-Down at the CAC
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand-Up/Sit-Down live comedy series tonight with Chris Roach at 8 p.m. Following the comedy show, Roach will “Sit-Down” with host Steven Taub to share stories about his career. Tickets are $35, $25 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Friday Dec. 20
Nutcracker Holiday Show
See Dec. 19 listing.
Community Blood Drive
Give the gift of life this holiday season. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, 48 Route 25A, Smithtown will hold a Community Blood Drive in the St. Vincent’s Conference Room on the lower level of the Medical Office Building from 7 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. To register, call 631-469-0989.
Vanderbilt Candlelight Tour
Enjoy some holiday magic on an evening Candlelight Tour of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s decorated Spanish Revival waterfront mansion, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Renowned designer and author Tricia Foley has decorated eight mansion rooms. The Asharoken, Centerport, Dix Hills, Nathan Hale, and Three Village garden clubs have decorated an additional eight rooms. Tickets are $15 adults, $12 seniors, $8 children, free for members. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org
Holiday Trail of Lights
Step into the holiday spirit as the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown presents a dazzling Holiday Trail of Lights tonight, Dec. 21 and Dec. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Stroll through a beautifully illuminated pathway featuring festive Holiday Trees from the Society’s Tree Contest, sparkling lights, and whimsical decorations. Warm up with delicious food and drinks from local food trucks, enjoy live music and photos with Santa, and roast marshmallows over a cozy fire as you make memories with family and friends. Tickets are $10 per person, kids under the age of 3 are free. Tickets available on Eventbrite or at the Info Booth during the event. Rain dates are Dec. 23 and 24. For more information, call 631-265-6768.
Reboli Center Holiday Party
The Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St. Stony Brook invites the community to their Holiday Party from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy live music by Nicole Demarco, kids crafts, cocoa and cookies, an art exhibition and exquisite gifts. Free. 631-751-7707
Holiday Country Barn Dance
Spirit’s Promise Equine Rescue, 2746 Sound Ave., Riverhead will hold a Holiday Country Barn Dance from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Join them in the beautifully decorated barn for a night of line dancing with guest instructor Ray Schwartz.. Wear your favorite holiday attire and BYO drinks & snacks. We will have door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. $15 per person, register online or pay cash at the door. All proceeds help to support the animals and programs at Spirit’s Promise. 631-875-0433, www.spiritspromise.com.
Saturday Dec. 21
Nutcracker Holiday Show
See Dec. 19 listing.
Holiday Trail of Lights
See Dec. 20 listing.
Santa on the Farm
SANTA ON THE FARM Come visit Santa Claus and friends at the Long Island Game Farm this weekend. Photo courtesy of Long Island Game Farm
Santa returns to Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville by popular demand. Meet the jolly fellow in the heated Woodland Hall today and Dec. 22 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m. to noon,and 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Bring your camera to take treasured family photos, visit with the animals, and enjoy holiday crafts. $35 per person. www.longislandgamefarm.com
Caumsett Hike
Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Lloyd Harbor for a History Hike from 9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Relax and socialize on this hilly, moderately paced 6-mile walk, as we make stops to discuss some spots of historic interest. Dress for the possibility of long grass. $4 per person. Call 631-423-1770 for reservations.
Selden Craft & Gift Fair
One of the area’s longest continuously running indoor craft fairs, the 43rd annual Selden Craft & Gift Fair will return to Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden today and Dec. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Over 200 exhibitors offer hand picked gift items including photography, textiles, soy candles, crafted jewelry, floral, organic soaps, country crafts and more. Free admission. 631-846-1459
Superheroes of the Sky
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Superheroes of the Sky from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s Birds of Prey and tells you about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing and learning about a Bald Eagle, Turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. $10 adults, $5 children under the age of 12. www.sweetbriarnc.org
Ronkonkoma Holiday Market
Station Yards, 9 Hawkins Ave., Ronkonkoma hosts a Holiday Market around the Village Green from noon to 4 p.m. Shop from a curated selection of local vendors and artisans, offering unique gifts, handmade goods, and seasonal treats—perfect for holiday gifting and supporting our community’s small businesses.
Art League of LI Reception
Join the Art League of Long Island, 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills for the opening reception for its 68th annual juried Members’ Exhibition Part I from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The exhibition, hosted in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery and featuring an array of artwork from painting and ceramics to jewelry and fiber arts, will run through Jan. 25, 2025. 631-462-5400, www.artleaguli.com
Winter Wonderland
Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, 829 Old Nichols Road, Islandia presents a Winter Wonderland fundraiser from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy a walk-through experience across 10 acres of lights, winter decorations and activities including winter-themed games, storybook readings, hot chocolate and treats, outdoor holiday movies, holiday music and caroling and much more. $20 per person, children under the age of 2 are free. 631-348-1389
Sunday Dec. 22
Santa on the Farm
See Dec. 21 listing.
Holiday Trail of Lights
See Dec. 20 listing.
Selden Craft & Gift Fair
See Dec. 21 listing.
Somehow Sorry in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brookpresents a concert by Somehow Sorry (John McCarthy and Lorraine Lisa aka Rain)from 3 to 4 p.m.The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org.
Jazz Nativity
Join the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook for a candlelight jazz nativity service featuring the Biblical Christmas story at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. with a 12 piece chamber Jazz orchestra featuring Metropolitan Opera soprano Susanna Phillips. Journey with the Three Wise Men as they travel to Bethlehem, join Mary and Joseph as they follow the Star and celebrate the birth of Baby Jesus. Tickets are $40 adults, $35 seniors, $30 students and $25 children. www.thejazzloft.org
Monday 23
Jazz Christmas Party
Grammy-winning vocalist Nicole Zuraitis presents a Jazz Christmas Party at the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook at 7 p.m. backed by a big band ensemble to present classic holiday chestnuts. Tickets are $40 adults, $35 seniors, $30 students and $25 children. www.thejazzloft.org
Tuesday Dec. 24
No events listed for this day.
Wednesday Dec. 25
No events listed for this day.
Thursday Dec. 26
Holiday Train Display
Town of Brookhaven’s Longwood Estate, corner of Longwood Road and Smith Road, Ridge will host a Holiday Train Display today through Dec 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 event. 631-924-1820
Dance
Nutcracker Ballet
Seiskaya Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to Staller Center’s Main Stage, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. The cast will again be led by guest artist David Wright (Cavalier/Nutcracker) a leading dancer of the vaunted Dance Theater of Harlem, and Seiskaya Ballet’s award winning principal dancers Madeleine Martufi, Kaede Urso and Michaela Lettiere plus returning principal dancers Brianna Jimenez, Eva Pyrros, Lara Caraiani and Diana Atoian. Tickets are $45 for adults and $38 for children under 12 and seniors aged 62+. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nutcrackerballet.com.
Film
‘The Godfather II’
CLASSIC CINEMA Join the Cinema Arts Cenre for a rare big-screen viewing of Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather Part II, the epic second entry into the story of the Corleone family, on Dec. 19.
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, The Godfather II will be screened at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. The Godfather trilogy continues the saga of the Corleone Family, serving as both a prologue and a sequel, extending over a period of 60 years and three generations. Chronicling both the rise of youthful Don Vito Corleone to Mafia chief in the early 1900s in the Little Italy section of New York City, as well as the career of Corleone’s son Michael from his patriarchal prime to his decline a year later. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Theater
‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’
Step into a world of pure imagination this holiday season as the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Nov. 14 to Dec. 29. Join young Charlie Bucket and four other lucky Golden Ticket winners as they embark on an unforgettable journey through Willy Wonka’s magical candy factory. With beloved songs from the 1971 film, this production promises to be a treat for the entire family. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘A Christmas Carol’
“I will honor Christmas in my heart…” Celebrate the season with the 40th annual production of A Christmas Carol at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 9 to Dec. 28. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the meaning of Christmas — past, present, and future. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’
Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents It’s A Wonderful Life from Dec. 7 to 29. Based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern, this beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, and $25 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
CALENDAR DEADLINEis 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 [email protected]. 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.
The Suffolk County Police Department is warning the public about a scam during which callers purport to be from a law enforcement agency and claim there is a warrant for the victim’s arrest if money is not sent.
Detectives have been made aware of at least three incidents during which a resident was contacted by phone by a caller identifying themselves as a member of the Suffolk County Police Department who says the resident has a warrant for their arrest and for them to send money. Detectives are not aware of any victims who have given money.
The victims report the scammers called from what appeared to be legitimate police department phone numbers. Scammers often use spoofing apps and other technology to falsely represent the numbers they are calling from.
Police will NEVER demand money in lieu of arrest or consequence.
If you believe you have been the victim of this or any other scam, contact police.
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