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Yearly Archives: 2024

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Suffolk County Police arrested a woman for stabbing her mother to death in Dix Hills on Nov. 27.

Second Precinct officers responded to 2 Carman Court at 9:08 p.m. after a 911 caller reported a stabbing victim at the location. When officers arrived, they discovered a resident, Josephine Bekatoros, 84, stabbed to death.

Homicide Squad detectives located Bekatoros’ daughter, Diana Bekatoros, 51, at her home, located at 4610 Center Blvd. in Long Island City, and charged her with Murder 2nd Degree.

Bekatoros was arraigned on November 28 at First District Court in Central Islip.

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Legislator Sanin with District 16 Veteran of the Year Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia

At the November General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia of the National Guard as the 16th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year.” The ceremony, held on November 26 in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building, celebrated veterans from each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislative districts.

“Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia represents the best of Suffolk County’s veteran community,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “His 16 years of dedicated service, not only to our nation but also to his fellow soldiers, exemplify leadership, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to service that strengthens our communities and our country.”

Staff Sergeant Mejia’s contributions are profound. As an Equal Opportunity officer in the Army National Guard, he has provided critical support to soldiers in need, including instances where his actions have saved lives. His advocacy extends to fostering opportunities for others, as evidenced by his tireless work assisting 11 fellow soldiers in achieving U.S. citizenship. Overcoming language barriers and navigating complex processes, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s mentorship made their dreams of citizenship a reality.

Beyond his official duties, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s impact has been recognized with the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award for his 100 hours of overseas service. His talents as a photographer have also brought comfort to soldiers, capturing and preserving moments that connect them to their loved ones back home.

“Staff Sergeant Mejia’s actions inspire all of us to lead with compassion and dedication,” said Legislator Sanin. “His service not only reflects the highest standards of military honor but also enriches the lives of everyone he touches. Suffolk County is privileged to count him among our own.”

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, with one of the largest veteran communities in the nation. The annual “Veteran of the Year” recognition underscores the county’s commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect freedom and liberty.

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Participants from last year's concert. Photo from Daniel Kerr/All Souls Church

Historic All Souls Church at 61 Main Street, Stony Brook invites the community to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas as it joins with thirteen other faith communities to present its annual Lessons & Carols concert on Saturday, December 7.  

The concert will feature Stony Brook University soprano Heidi Schneider and tell the story of the Nativity in scripture and song. Schneider’s solos will include “Ave Maria,” “Silent Night,” and “Away in the Manger.” 

Setauket guitarist Bill Clark and his Brave Trio will also perform “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Halleluiah,” and “What Child Is This?” Miriam and Lexi Salerno from St. James RC Church will sing “Breath of Heaven,” “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “Noel”. 

All attending will be invited to sing “Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” as All Souls organist Dan Kinney plays the church’s 1855 Tracker Organ. The readings will be done by clergy and lay people from The Stony Brook School, Caroline Church, Bethel AME Church, Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Stony Brook Community Church, Three Village Church, Religious Society of Friends-Quakers in St. James, Little Church of Smithtown Landing, St. James RC Church, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, Mt. Sanai Congregational Church, Setauket Methodist Church, and St. James Episcopal Church. 

There will be a 15-minute intermission and refreshments will be served. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. 

All Souls Church collects food each week to feed the hungry at the St Gerard Majella’s food pantry. Please bring a can of food to donate (“Lend a hand, bring a can”). Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

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Santa lights the tree at the Holtsville Ecology Center last year. Photo from Town of Brookhaven

By Heidi Sutton

While  a few communities took part in holiday tree lightings last week, the majority of tree lightings on the North Shore will take place this weekend and next weekend with caroling, treats and a special visit from Santa Claus. 

Centereach

The Centereach Civic Association invites the community to its annual holiday tree lighting and menorah lighting at their 2nd annual Dickens Festival on the lawn of Capital One Bank, 2100 Middle Country Road, Centereach on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, cookies and a visit from Santa. Rain date is Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. 

Cold Spring Harbor 

The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will host a tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. Santa Claus will light the hatchery’s Christmas Tree at 5:30 p.m. Free admission after 5 p.m. Suggested donation of $10 per family. 516- 692-6768

Coram

Coram Engine Company 2, corner of Route 112 and Pine Road, Coram will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Join them in Santa’s Workshop to decorate your own Santa hat while you wait for Santa Claus to arrive to light the tree with music and refreshments. 631-698-9714

East Northport

— Island Christian Church, 400 Elwood Road, East Northport will hold its 3rd annual Community Tree Lighting event on Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. Free family activities starting at 2:30 p.m. include ice skating, live nativity, Christmas show, cookie decorating, indoor snowball fights and much more. Visit islandchristian.com/christmas for more info and to register. 631-822-3000

— Join the East Northport Chamber of Commerce for the East Northport Holiday Tree Lighting at Clock Tower Park (corner of Bellerose Ave., and Larkfield Road) in East Northport on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.  Come say hi to Santa, and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Copenhagen Bakery.

Farmingville

The Farmingville community will hold its annual Tree Lighting at Triangle Park on Horseblock Road in Farmingville on Dec. 8 at 5 p.m.  Join Santa in lighting the Christmas tree and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday. Refreshments will be served at the Farmingville Fire Department after the event.

Flanders

The annual Big Duck Lighting will be held on Flanders Road in Flanders on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. The event features a visit from Quackerjack, the Long Island Ducks baseball team mascot, duck carols led by students from the Riverhead Middle School Show Choir, refreshments and the ever-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus by fire truck.

Greenlawn

The Greenlawn Civic Association hosts its 32nd annual “Meet at the Tree” Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, dance and musical performances, plus a special visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus on the Greenlawn Fire Dept. truck Bring your letters to Santa for the North Pole mailbox. www.greenlawncivic.org.

Holtsville

The Town of Brookhaven will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting event at the Holtsville Ecology Site, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. with costumed characters, musical entertainment, complimentary candy canes and hot chocolate, and a special appearance by Santa Claus, who will arrive via helicopter, and then assist with the countdown to light the tree. 631-451-9276

Huntington

The Town of Huntington’s  Holiday Spectacular Tree Lighting will be held  at 12 Wall Street in Huntington Village on Nov. 30 around 6:30 p.m. The event will be preceded by a vintage holiday parade at 5:30 p.m. 631-351-3000

Kings Park

The Kings Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony/Menorah Lighting at Veterans Plaza, 1 Church St., King Park on Dec. 8 at 4:15 p.m. Enjoy holiday music selections followed by invocation and welcome remarks from the chamber with hot chocolate and cookies. Held rain or shine. 631-269-7678

Lake Ronkonkoma

Join the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce at Raynor Park, 174 Ronkonkoma Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma on Dec. 1 for their annual Christmas Tree Lighting starting at 1 p.m. Enjoy holiday carols by local schoolchildren and a visit from Santa. 631-963-2796

Miller Place

— The 16th annual Tree Lighting and Polar Express will be held at the Aliano Shopping Center, 691 Route 25A, Miller Place on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Enjoy a performance by the Dance Pointe Performing Arts Center, as well as Miller Place students, and a visit from Santa Claus before the tree lighting along with live music, vendors, food and fun. 

— Join the Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society and Santa Claus for a tree lighting at the Daniel Hawkins House on North Country Road, Miller Place on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Then follow Santa and carolers on a candlelight tour of the William Miller House, 75 North Country Road, Miller Place and meet Clement Clarke Moore, author of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” $5 fee. For tickets, visit www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

Mount Sinai

Join the North Shore Youth Council and the Mount Sinai Fire Department for their 17th annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. Listen to festive caroling by the Sing 4 Music choir, warm up with hot chocolate with marshmallows and fresh baked cookies and visit with Santa. 631-403-4846

Nesconset

The Nesconset Chamber of Commerce will hold a Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at the Nesconset Gazebo on Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. with music, refreshments, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus. 631-724-2543

Northport

The Northport Village Tree Lighting event at Northport Village Park will kick off on Nov. 29 at 6:40 p.m. with a performance by the Posey School of Dance followed by Christmas Carols sung by the Northport Chorale! Stick around for the arrival of Village firetrucks carrying some very special visitors. 

Port Jefferson Station 

Join the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce for a Community Tree Lighting at the Chamber Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, candy canes, cookies, holiday music, dance performances and pictures with Santa & Mrs Claus who will arrive in an antique fire truck. 631-821-1313

Rocky Point

The 40th annual Rocky Point Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. at the corner of Broadway and Prince Road, Rocky Point with live holiday music, hot chocolate and candy canes and a special visit from Santa. 631-729-0699

Ronkonkoma

Join Station Yards, 3 Hawkins Ave., Ronkonkoma for its 1st annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Nov. 30 at 5:30 p.m. Santa himself will lead the countdown to light the tree, followed by storytelling and photos with the children. Come early to explore the Holiday Market from noon to 4 p.m. 631-751-0300

St. James

The St. James Chamber of Commerce, Deepwells Farm Historical Society and the St. James Fire Department invites the community to a Christmas Tree Lighting celebration at Deepwells Farm County Park, 2 Taylor Lane, St. James on Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with holiday music, kids crafts, pictures with Santa, cookies and hot chocolate. 631-584-8510

Shoreham

Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, 5 Randall Road, Shoreham invites the community to their annual Holiday Lighting at Wardenclyffe event on Dec. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy music, festive exhibits and activities for all ages with a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Rain date is Dec. 14. Register for your free tickets at www.teslasciencecenter.org. 631-886-2632

Smithtown

— Town of Smithtown will host its annual tree lighting ceremony at Town Hall, 99 West Main St. Smithtown on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with live music, performances from local school districts and dance companies, holiday treats, and a special guest from the North Pole, Rain date is Dec. 5.

NEW LOCATION — Smithtown Library, 148 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset will light their holiday tree on Dec. 6 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with refreshments, music and photos with Santa. 631-360-2480

Stony Brook

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization hosts a Holiday Tree Lighting with Santa at the Stony Brook Village Center Green, 111 Main St., Stony Brook on Dec. 8 at 5:30 p.m. as part of the WMHO’s 45th annual Holiday Festival. 631-751-2244.

Wading River

The Shoppes at East Wind in Wading River will host its 8th annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Enjoy live DJ entertainment and a dance number by All Star Dance Academy. Children can ride Rudolph on the carousel and put in a letter in Santa’s mailbox. Santa arrives on a Wading River Fire Department fire truck at 6 p.m. to light the tree. 631-846-2372

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Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie

By Heidi Sutton

Once your holiday feast comes to pass, you’re almost certain to find your refrigerator stuffed with leftovers. However, that doesn’t mean you want to eat the same meal again and again in the days that follow. 

Gone are the days of simply reheating turkey and stuffing or making a turkey sandwich. Instead, reinvent your holiday extras through fresh takes on classic dishes like this comforting Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie.

Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie

Recipe courtesy of Culinary.net

Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

Biscuits:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 1/2 teaspoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter

2/3 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon butter melted

Turkey Pot Pie Filling:

1/2 cup turkey fat

1 1/2 cups diced onion

1 1/2 cups diced carrots

1 1/2 cups diced celery

1 bay leaf

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon chopped thyme

1 tablespoon diamond crystal coarse salt

1 tablespoon coarse black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour divided

8 cups cold turkey stock

6 cups leftover cooked turkey chopped

DIRECTIONS:

To make biscuits: In mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and cream of tartar. Grate butter and mix with dry ingredients. Carefully add buttermilk and mix until incorporated. Fold over 5-6 times, roll out and cut into 10-12 rounds. Place cut biscuits on floured surface. Refrigerate 30 minutes.

To make turkey pot pie filling: Preheat oven to 375 F. Heat large pot over high heat and add turkey fat. Add onions, carrots, celery, bay leaf, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper; gently sweat. Add 1/2 cup flour and cook 2-3 minutes. Add turkey stock 2 cups at a time, allowing to thicken before adding more. In bowl, mix remaining flour with turkey. Add turkey pot, bring to simmer until thickened. 

Add pot pie filling to casserole dish and gently place biscuits closely together on top. Brush biscuits with melted butter and bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool 10-15 minutes before serving.

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A selection of Bebe Federman Designs at Gallery North's Holiday Gift Bazaar in a previous year. Photo courtesy of Gallery North
Carré Griggs of Carré Bouquets at the Three Village Historical Society's Winter Holiday Market. Photo by Kimberly Phyfe
Julia Vogelle of Julia Vogelle Fine Arts at the Three Village Historical Society's Winter Holiday Market. Photo by Kimberly Phyfe
Mark & Lyndell Cassin of The Big Cheese at the Three Village Historical Society's Winter Holiday Market. Photo by Kimberly Phyfe

By Tara Mae

The holidays are a time to celebrate community, both big and small. Local holiday markets abound with opportunities for festive fun and merry memories in the making. 

Whether singular excursions or weeks-long endeavors, these holiday affairs are designed to foster a jovial mood. More than just shopping sites, they enable attendees to forge new traditions as they support local craftspeople and discover one-of-a-kind items. 

Upcoming celebrations include the Holiday Market Wonderland at the Reboli Center in Stony Brook, Winter Holiday Market at Setauket Neighborhood House, and Holiday Gift Bazaar at Gallery North in Setauket, Station Yards Ronkonkoma’s Holiday Market and Holiday Markets of the Huntington Holiday Spectacular.

Set up in a large heated tent behind the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook and organized by Tracey Balaker of Freebird Events, the third annual Holiday Night Market Wonderland will be held on Saturday, November 30, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Reboli’s gallery and gift shop, which normally close at 5 p.m., will stay open for the duration of the occasion.

“I am excited to bring this event to the Reboli Center, right in the heart of magical Stony Brook Village; it is such a great location. I was trying to create a Bryant Park village, Christmas market feel — everyone comes dressed and adorns their spaces with lights,” said Balaker. 

Approximately 55 vendors — both inside and outside the tent — will offer items such as baked goods, handmade crafts, unique gifts, and clothing. A food stand will provide sweet treats, including cider and hot chocolate, for visitors to  enjoy as they are serenaded by carolers, the Celestial Singers. Frosty the Snowman, the Gingerbread Man, and other holiday characters will make cameo appearances, and a pony from Peaches Pony Parties will be decked out as a reindeer and pose for photo opportunities. 

“Everyone who has come to it the past few years says it feels like a Hallmark Christmas movie,” said Balaker. 

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From a film scene to a historic setting, Three Village Historical Society’s (TVHS) fourth annual Winter Holiday Market will take place at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket on Sunday, December 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Displaying an array of evergreen accent pieces, edible artistry, and artisanal craftsmanship, 32 vendors will be situated throughout the building and on the porch. 

“We have stunning greenery displays and floral arrangements, New York cheese, balsamic glazes, local honey, decorated cookies, delicious baked goods, spices and seasonings and soups, farm fresh preserves, and a brand new distillery with a Culper Spy theme,” said TVHS Community Engagement Manager Kimberly Phyfe. 

Other participants will be offering their artisanal products: jewelry, soaps, candles, pottery, knitwear, clothing, personalized drinkware, and artwork. TVHS will likewise have a pop-up gift shop with trinkets, books, and other selections from its inventory. 

“We are so looking forward to giving our guests a place to shop small & support local,” Phyfe said. 

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Located at 90 North Country Road in Setauket, Gallery’s North’s fourth annual Holiday Gift Bazaar is another celebration of communal appreciation as well as artistic expression. On Saturday, December 14, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., it will highlight the work of 12 artists displaying their jewelry, ceramics, wood craft, fiber art, candles, and printmaking. 

“The Gallery North Holiday Gift Bazaar is a special indoor holiday gift market that provides an alternative to online and department store shopping. Artists will display their work on tables in both the Gallery and the Studio,” Gallery North Director of Development Erin Smith said. 

Patrons will also be able to choose works from the gallery’s current exhibition, Deck the Halls, and choose from an array of handmade, local goods in its gift shop. Level Up Kitchen will be onsite, selling food and drinks. 

“The Bazaar is an excellent opportunity to support local artists and businesses,” Smith said. 

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The newly opened Station Yards at 3 Hawkins Avenue in Ronkonkoma and the Holiday Markets of the Huntington Holiday Spectacular will give audiences multiple chances to embrace the joyful camaraderie of the season. 

On Saturdays, November 30 to December 21, from noon to 4 p.m., Station Yards will premiere its first Holiday Market around the Village Green. Shop from a curated selection of local vendors and artisans, offering unique gifts, handmade goods, and seasonal treats—perfect for holiday gifting.

Available every Friday and Sunday in December, from noon to 5 p.m., except Friday, December 6, when it turns into a night market from 5 to 9 p.m., the Holiday Markets along Wall Street in Huntington will be multi-sensory spectacles presenting a collection of shopping and social conveniences. 

At the heart of these five holiday markets is the enticement of strengthening existing  human connections and forging new ones while promoting common interests. 

“When your holiday gifts come from small business owners and local vendors, the money stays within the neighborhood. It’s more than purchasing the perfect present, it’s building up our own community,” Phyfe said. 

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Opponents push for new environmental review, cite stormwater and zoning concerns

The Saint James–Head of the Harbor Neighborhood Preservation Coalition and local homeowners have filed an appeal to the Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court after their Article 78 petition challenging the proposed Gyrodyne development was dismissed. They have also asked the lower court to reconsider their case, seeking to overturn the Smithtown Planning Board’s preliminary site plan approval and require a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.

At the core of their argument are claims that the environmental review for the development was incomplete, failing to address severe weather risks and other flaws. Petitioners point to the August 18-19, 2024 storm, which caused the collapse of the Stony Brook Mill Pond dam, as a key example of unaddressed dangers.

This legal action is happening alongside efforts by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Suffolk County to preserve the undeveloped Flowerfield Fairgrounds portion of the Gyrodyne property as open space through a purchase at fair market value.

Environmental Review Under Scrutiny

Petitioners argue that the Environmental Impact Statement relied on outdated data and failed to address the increasing frequency and severity of major storms. “The environmental review of Gyrodyne’s subdivision plan didn’t account for severe weather events like August’s storm or the stormwater runoff that contributed to the dam’s collapse,” said Judith Ogden, a trustee for the Village of Head of the Harbor and spokesperson for the coalition. “If a similar storm occurred with the development in place, the Stony Brook Grist Mill could have been destroyed.”

Experts Support Supplemental Review

Dr. Christopher J. Gobler, a professor at Stony Brook University and director of the New York State Center for Clean Water Technology, provided an affidavit highlighting that the rainfall standard used in the Environmental Impact Statement is outdated. He recommended updating the assessment to consider more extreme storms, such as Hurricane Ida in 2021 and the 2014 storm in Islip that saw over 13 inches of rain.

Dr. Carl Safina, an ecologist and professor at Stony Brook University, also submitted an affidavit. He criticized the Environmental Impact Statement for failing to address harm to marine life, including shellfish in Stony Brook Harbor, from potential pharmaceutical runoff. He also raised concerns about increased traffic congestion and safety risks that could result from the proposed development.

Concerns About Compliance With Local Plans

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket,) a geologist and former New York State assemblyman, noted that the proposed development does not align with Smithtown’s Comprehensive Master Plan. The plan prioritizes higher-density, mixed-use development in downtown areas and near transit hubs, while preserving community character and natural resources. Opponents argue the Gyrodyne proposal, which requires special zoning exceptions, conflicts with these goals.

Calls for a Full Reassessment

“Making sure the environmental review is thorough and accurate is essential to upholding the law,” said Joseph Bollhofer, a board member of the coalition. “Storm events like the one on August 19 are becoming more common. A Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement is necessary to fully address these impacts.”

The coalition and plaintiffs argue that without a proper reassessment of severe weather risks, stormwater impacts, and compliance with local zoning regulations, the Gyrodyne development could create significant problems for the environment and the surrounding community.

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Founder of Christmas Magic, Charlie Russo, far left, accepts a check on behalf of the charity.

By Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

It is hard to believe that the holiday season 2024 is so fast approaching. As I write this column, it is still a week before Thanksgiving and the holiday lights are appearing everywhere. For college students, final exams are fast approaching. 

This has been a really challenging year for us as a nation. The election of our President brought out great divisiveness. The negativity was painful and the intense polarization was so infectious.

However, the mood is changing. Thanksgiving is upon us. It’s a time for building bridges, not walls. It’s a time to take pause and be profoundly grateful for all of our blessings. It’s a time for reaching out to our neighbors, even if we’ve disagreed with them. It’s a time for us to celebrate the greatness of our nation.

We should take a moment this holiday season to give thanks for what we have and build upon it in the new year.

Every year I am so impressed with my college students and what they do for others. My university students at St. Joseph’s are so generous with our Thanksgiving and Christmas projects that serve those in need. My Suffolk County Community College students are equally generous with their time and talent. They give so much during this wonderful season that it really makes a difference. I am so proud of them. They inspire me to stay the course and continue in higher education.

More than three decades ago, a young lawyer named Charlie Russo wanted to teach his children the real meaning of the Christmas season. It gave birth to a program that has grown tremendously known as Christmas Magic (christmasmagic.org). It reaches out to all of our children that must spend the Christmas season in our county homeless shelters.

Now more than 30 years later, the organization continues to inspire young people and adults from all over the county to give their time and talent during the holiday season. Hundreds of our high school students volunteer to wrap presents and volunteer as elves. A growing number of college students are also volunteering every holiday season to help and support the efforts of Christmas Magic. 

We also cannot forget the extreme generosity of our larger community who contribute money and presents so Christmas Magic can continue to touch the lives of thousands of little kids who are in our county homeless shelters.

By the time you read this column, you will be in the midst of celebrating this wonderful time of year, a time for love for peace and for gratitude. May this holiday season be a real blessing to all of you.

Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.

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A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from 2024 Santaport. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

It’s that time of year when Santa Claus comes to town. The jolly old man was spotted at Centerport United Methodist Church on Saturday, Nov. 23, kicking off the holiday season as the church hosted its annual Santaport. Attendees enjoyed a day filled with caroling, shopping, eating and camaraderie.

Santaport is the church’s largest fundraiser, with hundreds of people attending each year. Shoppers browsed through a huge selection of new and vintage jewelry, toys, clothing, white elephant gifts and a visit to the “North Pole” to see Santa and take pictures.

The crowd began forming outside the church an hour before it opened, but no one seemed to mind, especially Eric Holzman of Northport. Holzman explained that waiting in line is a great way to meet new people and start conversations. He added, “I come for the deals and to shop for things people would normally throw out.”

Paul Kozlowski from Greenlawn and his wife, Connie, have been members of the congregation for more than 30 years. Paul serves as a greeter each year. They said the yearly event brings the church community together. “Everyone at the church puts in some type of volunteer role for this event,” Kozlowski explained.

Daphne and John Burns from Greenlawn expressed interest in toys and clothing for their grandkids. Daphne said she likes tools because older ones are sturdier and don’t break as often. She also enjoys shopping for knickknacks for her home.

The event wasn’t just for adults. Kids enjoyed the Children’s Craft Room, where they played with toys and bubbles and made decoupage jars with tissue paper and holiday decals.

Shopping worked up appetites, and food was plentiful. Visitors enjoyed homemade quiches, soups, BBQ pulled pork, fresh blueberry pies and cheesecake — all made and served by church volunteers.

“I enjoy helping prepare the food and working with my friends to help serve the church and community,” said Susan Beck of East Northport, a longtime volunteer and church member.

Judy White from Centerport echoed a similar sentiment. Her team of volunteers made 91 quarts of soup for the day. White explained that the event is a “wonderful opportunity for the church and the community to come together before the holidays.”

The church also hosted Sarah Zagaza, author of “Raising Betty,” for a book signing and appearance with her service dog Fenway. The book is a memoir about the challenges and rewards of raising a guide dog. Zagaza shares personal stories of dedication, compassion and the profound bond formed between a guide dog and its handler.

A visit to Santa inside the chapel was the highlight of each child’s visit. Santa said he has the best job in the world and loves seeing children’s eyes light up when they come to see him.

The holiday bazaar was a heartwarming success, bringing the community together to celebrate the spirit of the season. The event not only raised funds for important church programs but also provided a joyful opportunity for neighbors to connect and share in the holiday cheer. As the day drew to a close, the laughter and goodwill lingered, reminding everyone of the true meaning of the season — togetherness, generosity and faith.

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The Vanderbilt Mansion library was decorated by Tricia Foley this year. Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Museum
The Vanderbilt Mansion dining room ready for the holidays. Photo from Vanderbilt Museum
John Guidi places starfish and scallop shell ornaments on a tall tree in the Vanderbilt Museum's Memorial Wing. Vanderbilt Museum photo
Tricia Foley (right) and assistant Bridget Swift decorate the Vanderbilt Mansion Library. Vanderbilt Museum photo

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s holiday centerpiece is the summer mansion of William and Rosamond Vanderbilt, decorated each year by local designers and garden clubs. Their creative touch brings additional charm and magic to the spectacular, 24-room, Spanish-Revival house. Built in stages from 1910 to 1936, the grand waterfront house overlooking Northport Harbor in Centerport is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Renowned designer and author Tricia Foley has just completed decorating eight rooms for the holidays while five local garden clubs — Asharoken, Centerport, Dix Hills, Nathan Hale, and Three Village — decorated an additional eight rooms. The stunning results will take visitors on trip back in time at the estate of a prominent family whose guests included famous Americans and British royalty.

“The historic mansion has never looked more stunning for the holiday season, thanks to the extraordinary vision of Tricia Foley, her brilliant team, and their collaboration with the garden clubs. The mansion is bright and alive with earthy elegance and the inviting scents of the season — a magical and timeless atmosphere,” said Elizabeth Wayland-Morgan, Executive Director of the Vanderbilt.

Foley, who has decorated houses at Colonial Williamsburg, is principal of Tricia Foley Design. She specializes in all aspects of home design and restoration and is known for her simple, classic style.

“The challenge in decorating historic houses is, what is period appropriate?” she said during a decorating break at the mansion. “In the early days, people did not use much décor. They might place a sprig of greenery on a mirror or looking glass, as they were called.

“Here, we want to bridge the gap. The mansion is elegant, with original furnishings, tapestries, sconces, lamps, and crystal. Red and green is expected, but we’re using silver, gold and cream. Instead of color, we’re using candlelight and crystal — as much sparkle as we can get.”

Foley said she wanted to create a “natural” look, with greenery, garlands, ribbons, and ornaments on the mantelpieces. She also made use of decorative objects the museum had from past years — Tiffany boxes with gold bows, and small brass instruments.

“There are so many beautiful things to work with,” she said. “The Vanderbilts were not here in December, so we have to imagine what it would have been like. If they had been here, they would have used poinsettias, apples, oranges, and greenery.”

Foley has decorated homes for House Beautiful, Victoria, and Country Home as well as four historic houses in Yaphank for their historical society. Her own house on the East End of Long Island has been photographed for Neiman Marcus, the Pottery Barn, and Land’s End for their Christmas catalogs

Enjoy the holiday magic at the Vanderbilt mansion during guided tours now through December. Regular guided tours will take place on Fridays from 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and weekends from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Special candlelight tours will be offered on Saturday, Dec. 7 and 14, and Friday, Dec. 20, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Private tours of the mansion are also available. 

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum is located at 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. For more informaton and ticket prices, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

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