CLOSE
Authors Posts by Heidi Sutton

Heidi Sutton

2542 POSTS 0 COMMENTS

by -
0 820
Big Lots

By Heidi Sutton

In a last minute strategic move, Big Lots announced in a press release on Dec. 27 that it has agreed to a sale transaction with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, LLC that enables the transfer of Big Lots assets, including stores, distribution centers, and intellectual property, to other retailers and companies, including Variety Wholesalers, Inc. , which owns more than 400 retail stores in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic United States under the Roses, Roses Express, Maxway, Bill’s Dollar Stores, Super 10, Super Dollar, and Bargain Town banners.

The move will save hundreds of stores from closing and prevent thousands from losing their jobs. However, it was unclear whether any of the remaining New York locations would be spared in the agreement.

Variety Wholesalers intends to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots stores, which it plans to operate under the Big Lots brand moving forward, and up to two distribution centers. In addition, Variety Wholesalers may employ Big Lots associates at the acquired stores and distribution centers, as well as certain corporate associates needed to support the go-forward footprint.

Bruce Thorn, Big Lots’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “The strategic sale to Gordon Brothers and the transfer to Variety Wholesalers is a favorable and significant achievement for Big Lots that reflects the tireless work and collective effort of our team. This sale agreement and transfer present the strongest opportunity to preserve jobs, maximize value for the estate and ensure continuity of the Big Lots brand. We are grateful to our associates nationwide for their grit and resilience throughout this process.”

Rick Edwards, Gordon Brothers Retail Partners’ Head of North America Retail, said, “We are pleased to reach this strategic agreement with Big Lots and partner with Variety Wholesalers to achieve a path forward that allows Big Lots to continue to serve customers with extreme bargains and an outstanding shopping experience.”

Lisa Seigies, Variety Wholesalers’ President and CEO, said, “We are excited to partner with Gordon Brothers to provide a path forward for the Big Lots brand and hundreds of its stores. We look forward to working with members of the Big Lots team to realize the exciting opportunities ahead.”

According to the press release, the agreement is subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court and other customary closing conditions.

 

by -
0 339
Image from Vanderbilt Museum

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents a special Gesture Drawing children’s workshop with artist Wendy Klemperer on Monday, Dec. 30 from noon to 2 p.m.

Participants will view drawings and sculptures of Klemperer’s exhibition Wrought Taxonomies, practice gestural drawing, and learn about the artistic process of creating sculpture that captures movement and form.

Beth Laxer-Limmer, Director of Education, said, “Working with an artist like Wendy is a rare opportunity for kids who love to draw.  Wendy’s work is wonderfully expressive and serene. Spotting her creatures existing on the property is always thrilling.”

Exclusively for children in grades 5 through 8, the fee is $45, $40 members.

Purchase tickets here.

 

by -
0 484
1 of 2
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry Sauce

ADOPT CRANBERRY SAUCE!

This week’s featured shelter pet is Cranberry Sauce, one of several cats abandoned when their parents moved and now safe at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. She is a little love bug that will brighten your day.

According to the shelter’s staff, this little lady is all love all of the time.  She follows you around and demands attention. She is a stage 5 clinger and you won’t mind one little bit!

Cranberry can be adopted alone or with one of her housemates. She has an overactive thyroid and will need a home that can manage that

If you are interested in meeting Cranberry Sauce, please fill out an application to schedule time to properly interact with your prospective soul mate in a domestic setting.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

For more information regarding rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

 

by -
0 507
1 of 2
2024 Festival of Trees. Photo courtesy of Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce
2024 Festival of Trees. Photo courtesy of Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce

Looking for something to do this weekend? Visit the Festival of Trees, beautifully decorated trees by local businesses, groups, and non-profits, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson through Jan. 2 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

This event is presented by The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by The Incorporated Village of Port Jefferson and is free to the community. For more information, call 631-802-2160.

by -
0 550
KEVIN! Catch a screening of ‘Home Alone’ at the Cinema Arts Centre on Dec. 29.
PROGRAMS

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. to  noon 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 Break at the Fish Hatchery

Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for Holiday Break from Dec. 26 to Jan. 2. Click here for the full schedule. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

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

Hanukkah Celebration

Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Global Language Reads, 402 Main St., Port Jefferson with a special Hanukkah event on Dec. 26 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Kids will enjoy crafting menorahs, dreidels, and other holiday symbols, followed by a cozy book reading that shares the story and traditions of Hanukkah. $5 per child. glrbooks.com,  631-314-9080

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. 27 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

Magazine Strip Art for Kids 

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St.. Setauket welcomes children in grades K through 6 to a Magazine Strip Art workshop on Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Make a silhouette decoration out of recycled magazine strips at Emma Clark Library. No registration required. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Snow Globe Workshop

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a Snow Globe Workshop on Dec. 27 and Jan. 3 at noon or 2 p.m. Have you ever wondered how whales stay warm in freezing waters? Celebrate the wonder of whales and other arctic creatures and explore blubber and bones from our collection. Design and create a wintry whale scene inside of a shimmering snow globe-style craft to take home. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required 631-367-3418

Candledipping Workshop

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. 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

Gesture Drawing Workshop

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers a Gesture Drawing Workshop with artist Wendy Klemperer on Dec. 30 from noon to 2 p.m. Participants will view drawings and sculptures in her exhibition Wrought Taxonomies, practice gestural drawing, and learn about the artistic process of creating sculpture that captures movement and form. For kids in grades 5 to 8 only. Tickets are $45, $40 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Nautical New Year

Did you know the New Year’s Eve ball is based on an old nautical timekeeping tradition? Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor on Dec. 31  at 11 a.m. for a countdown to 12 noon, and enjoy festive self-serve crafts all day during gallery hours. Free with museum admission. 631-367-3418

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. This enchanting musical features 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.

FILM

‘Home Alone’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of the holiday classic Home Alone on Dec. 29 at noon. When mischievous 8-year-old Kevin McCallister acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

by -
0 759
A WINTER WONDERLAND The Longwood Estate in Ridge invites the community to a free holiday train display this week.
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 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free. 631-802-2160

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

Friday Dec. 27

Holiday Train Display

See Dec. 26 listing.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door, cash only. 631-928-9100

Saturday Dec. 28

Holiday Train Display

See Dec. 26 listing.

Caleb Smith Hike

Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for Trails Less Traveled from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Enjoy some refreshing autumn air as you embark on some of the hilly, secluded trails of the park. $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Organ Concert

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai will host  an Organ Concert by Michael Kearney at 4 p.m. Come hear beautiful organ music in the church sanctuary. There will be a free will donation, with proceeds used to repair the organ. For additional information, contact 631-473-1582.

Sunday Dec. 29

Holiday Train Display

See Dec. 26 listing.

Lydia Von Hof in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by folk-rock harmony trio Lydia Von Hof from 3 to 4 p.m.  The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org. 

Monday Dec. 30

Holiday Train Display

See Dec. 26 listing.

Tuesday Dec. 31

Holiday Train Display

See Dec. 26 listing.

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a club meeting in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Rabbi Aaron Benson will discuss the current situation in Israel. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

New Year’s Laughin’ Eve

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a New Year’s Laughin’ Eve at 6 p.m. (early bird show) or 8 p.m. with comedians Meghan Hanley, Chris Monty and Mick Thomas. Tickets are $70 for the early bird show, $80 for the prime time show. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

New Year’s Eve Extravaganza

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents Tom Manuel’s New Year’s  Eve Extravaganza with shows at 7 p.m. and again at 10 p.m. Join The Jazz Loft All-Stars and accompanying vocalist on the dance floor. $75 per person includes open bar, beer and wine and champagne toast. www.thejazzloft.org.

New Year’s Eve Comedy Night

Ring in the New Year with laughs as the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown and Governor’s Comedy Clubs host a night of comedy at 10 p.m. Stand-ups include Kevin Downey Jr., Olga Namer, Debbie D’Amore and MC Jessica Collazo. $90 per person includes an open bar of beer and wine, a selection of hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Wednesday Jan. 1

First Day Hike at Sunken Meadow

Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park in kicking off the new year with a 2-mile hike to explore Sunken Meadow State Park from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Take in the breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound as you travel along the Sunken Meadow boardwalk and trails. Meet at Field 1, Park Office. Call 631-269-4333 for further details.

First Day Hike at Caumsett

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a 5-mile habitat hike through the fields and forest of Caumsett to enjoy the history and nature of the park from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please remember to dress warm and for rain, bring water. For ages 8 and up. Meet at flagpole by office.  No registration necessary. Free. Call 631-423-1770 for further info.

New Year’s Day Hike

Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a New Year’s Day Hike at 11 a.m. Come learn about Long Island winter habitats and end your visit with a guided 1/2 mile nature hike, Family friendly. Free with general admission fee of $7 adults $6 seniors, $5 children ages 5 to 12. Pre-registration is required by visiting cshfishhatchery.org or click here.

Thursday Jan. 2

Medicaid Enrollment Assistance

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Medicaid Enrollment Assistance event for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled from 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Those 65+, blind, and/or disabled can enroll in selected Medicaid programs. First come, first served. No appointment necessary. For more information, contact the Nassau-Suffolk HospitalCouncil at 631-656-9783 (option 2) or visit: https://coverage4healthcare.org/

Film

‘Christmas Vacation’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation on Dec. 28 at 9:30 p.m. America’s favorite family; The Griswolds are back and ready to celebrate Christmas with their extended family the only way they could in a continuous chain of disastrous events! Rated PG-13. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘Crossing Delancey’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 54th season with Susan Sandler’s Crossing Delancey from Jan. 18 to Feb. 9. Isabel is an independent young woman living alone and working in a book shop. When not pining after a handsome author, she visits her grandmother in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This spunky granny and her friend the matchmaker have found a “good catch” for Izzy, whose initial reluctance gives way to a blossoming romance when she finally meets Sam, the pickle vendor. A sincere, delightful, and loving comedy — fresh, timeless, and heart-warming.  Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” Tickets start at $80. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to the end of April.631-802-216

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 [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.

 

by -
0 890
Party City in Centereach will close on Feb. 28. Photo by Heidi Sutton

By Heidi Sutton

After 40 years of providing balloons and party supplies for birthday and graduation celebrations along with Halloween costumes, Party City announced on Dec. 20 that it will be closing all of its stores by February 28, 2025.

There are six Party City stores in Suffolk County including ones in Centereach, Patchogue and Commack. In total, over 800 stores will close.

The announcement was made by Party City CEO Barry Litwin to corporate employees via video conference. Litwin, who was appointed CEO just four months ago, cited financial challenges, helium shortages, competition from Walmart and Target, and inflation as the reason for the closures. The COVID-19 pandemic was also cited as less people are having parties.

“That is without question the most difficult message that I’ve ever had to deliver,” said Litwin. “It’s really important for you to know that we’ve done everything possible that we could to try to avoid this outcome,” he  said. “Unfortunately, it’s necessary to commence a winddown process immediately.”

The news came as a shock to many employees as grand re-openings had been celebrated at several stores in April of this year including one in East Hanover, New Jersey. The news also comes just a day after Big Lots announced it will be closing all remaining stores by early January.

 

 

by -
0 538
Stock photo

By Heidi Sutton

Hanukkah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25 and ends on the evening of Thursday, Jan. 2 this year. Here are some menorah lighting ceremonies, parades and celebrations in our communities.

Commack

Multiple synagogues in the area and the Suffolk Y JCC will sponsor a community menorah lighting event at the Commack Corner Shopping Center parking lot, southeast corner of Jericho Turnpike and Commack Road, in Commack on Monday, Dec. 30 at 6:30 p.m. There will be entertainment, live music, dreidels, chocolate gelt,  latkes and giveaways. 631-462-9800

Coram

Join Lubavitch of the East End for a menorah lighting at the Davis House, 263 Middle Country Road, Coram on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 4 p.m. 

Dix Hills

The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills invites the community to their Grand Menorah Lighting on Thursday, Dec 26 at 5:30 p.m. with latkes and donuts. on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. 631-351-8672

East Setauket

Participants enjoy donuts and latkes at a previous Village Chabad menorah lighting in East Setauket. Photo by Gail DeClue

Village Chabad, 360 Nicolls Road, East Setauket will host a Chanukah Car Parade and Grand Menorah Lighting with a Chocolate Gelt Drop on Thursday, Dec. 26 starting at 4 p.m. with latkes, donuts, magic show and hot cocoa. $10 per person in advance, $15 day before. RSVP required at at MyVillageChabad.com/RSVP. 631-585-0521

Farmingville

Join the Town of Brookhaven and Lubavitch of the East End for a Chanukah celebration at Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville on Thursday, Dec. 26 at 6 p.m. with a menorah lighting, magic show, latkes, donuts and more. 631-698-4000

Greenlawn

The Greenlawn Civic Association will host a Menorah Lighting Ceremony and Hanukkah celebration at Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn in the Communiy Meeting Room on Monday, Dec. 30 at 6 p.m. www.greenlawncivic.org

Huntington 

Chabad of Huntington Village will host a Grand Menorah Lighting at the Huntington Village Winter Wonderland along Wall Street on Monday, Dec. 30 at 5 p.m. featuring music by Toby Tobias, fire juggling, festive balloons, chocolate gelt and donuts. 631-276-4453

Huntington Station

Chabad of Huntington & Melville invites the commuity to a Chanukah Wonderland at the Walt Whitman Shops,160 Walt Whitman Rd, Huntington Station (near center court) on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 4 p.m. Enjoy dreidel painting, doughnut decorating, face painting, giant Menorah lighting, build your own menorah, balloon designing, Chanukah gelt, arts & crafts, music, family entertainment, and much more. Free. RSVP suggested. www.Melvillechabad.com/chanukah, 631-385-2424.

Mount Sinai

Join Lubavitch of the East End for a menorah lighting at Heritage Park, 633 Mt. Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai on Monday, Dec. 30 a 5:30 p.m. 

Northport

Join the Village of Northport in lighting the menorah outside Northport Village Park on Thursday, Dec. 26 at 6 p.m. 631-261-7502

Port Jefferson Station

The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Menorah Lighting at the Chamber Train Car, corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station on Wednesday, Dec. 25 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.  Join them for a special ceremony led by Rabbi Aaron Benson of the North Shore Jewish Center.  631-821-1313.

St. James

The community is invited to the St. James Menorah Lighting Ceremony at The Triangle, Route 25A and Lake Ave., St. James on Dec. 25 and Dec. 26 at 5 p.m., Dec. 27 at 4 p.m. and Dec. 28 to Jan. 2 at 5 p.m. 631-584-8510

Stony Brook

Temple Isaiah, 1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook invites the community to a Community Candlelighting on Wednesday, Dec. 25 at 5 p.m.  Join Rabbi Josh, Rebbetzin Meg and the Shabbat Singers for the first night of Chanukah. Please RSVP by calling 631-751-8518.

Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown and Chabad of MidSuffolk will hold its annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall, 99 West Main St., Smithtown onThursday, Dec. 26 at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy live music, latkes, donuts and a special gelt drop for children. 631-360-7512

by -
0 487
Cherry Almond Rugelach

By Heidi Sutton

No celebration of the Festival of Lights would be complete without Hanukkah desserts to close out  each evening. 

Cherry Almond Rugelach

Recipe by Marcia Stanley

YIELD: Makes 36 pieces

INGREDIENTS: 

1 cup butter, softened

1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 cups all-purpose flour

2/3 cup dried tart cherries

1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted, chopped

3-4 tablespoons milk (skim, 2% or whole)

granulated sugar

DIRECTIONS:

For cookie dough, in large mixer bowl beat butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, almond extract and salt on medium speed of an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add flour. Beat until dough forms. Divide into thirds. Shape each piece into a 1-inch-thick disk. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1 hour. 

Meanwhile, for filling, in food processor place cherries, brown sugar and nutmeg. Cover and pulse until cherries are coarsely chopped. Stir in almonds.

Preheat oven to 350°F. On floured surface roll each disk into about a 13-inch circle. Center a 12-inch round bowl, plate or pan on dough circles. Trim around edges to create 12-inch-diameter circles. Discard scraps. Brush circles with milk. Sprinkle a third of the filling on each circle. Lightly press into dough. 

Cut each circle into 12 wedge-shaped pieces. Beginning at wide end, roll up each wedge. Place, point side down, 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush tops with additional milk and sprinkle with sugar (if desired). Bake for 18 to 21 minutes or until brown. Transfer to wire rack and cool before serving.

Hanukkah Apple Cake

Recipe by Marcia Stanley

Hanukkah Apple Cake

YIELD: Serves 12

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 2/3 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 large apples, cored, peeled and chopped

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat 9-inch round springform pan with nonstick cooking spray. In medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, the 2 teaspoons cinnamon and salt. Set aside. 

In large mixer bowl beat cream cheese and butter on medium speed of an electric until combined. Add the 1 2/3 cups sugar. Beat until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until combined. Add flour mixture to beaten mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined. Fold in apples and pecans. Spread in prepared pan. Stir together the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle over the top of the cake. 

Bake for 1 hour and 10  minutes or until wooden skewer inserted near center comes out clean.

by -
0 433
Butterball

ADOPT BUTTERBALL!

This week’s featured shelter pet is Butterball, a smorgasbord of purr-fection and available for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. This handsome, portly, domestic short-haired brown tabby, is a six year old boy who comes equipped with a banquet of love to give one lucky family. Butterball lived in a home until the owner moved, only to abandon him and his other feline friend companions behind. Despite his heartbreak and desertion, Butterball is ever so sweet, and in search of his forever home where he can bring endless joy and laughter to one lucky family!

While at first encounters, Butterball may appear to be on the shy side. However, with a little patience and gentle persuasion to earn his trust, will culminate into a jumbo-sized dose of unconditional love and loyalty. If his rotund personality is the total package for you, then the sweet sound of Butterball’s endearing purr, and endless devotion is the icing on the cake. It is nearly impossible to resist Butterball’s charming nature once he trusts you. Simply put, this is one of the most lovable and huggable best buds you will ever meet!

Butterball would thrive in a serene home with older children, mellow dogs, and cats. While his size and stature make him unique and adorable, he will need a family that will support him in sticking to a healthy diet to help him meet his weight loss goals for the new year.

If you are interested in meeting Butterball, please fill out an application to schedule time to properly interact with your prospective soul mate in a domestic setting.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

For more information regarding rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

Prev1...141516...255Next Page 15 of 255
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©