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By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

As the weather has started to turn cooler, I’ve been hearing a lot more sniffling and sneezing. It’s a good reminder that cold season is upon us. Most frequently caused by the human rhinovirus, a cold’s effects can range from an annoyance to more serious symptoms that put us out of commission for a week or more.

The good news is that it may be possible to reduce the symptoms — or even reduce the duration — of a common cold with lifestyle management and a few dietary supplements.

What can you do to relieve cold symptoms?

If you have congestion or coughing symptoms, sitting in a steamy bathroom may help. It simulates a medical mist tent, moisturizing your nasal and bronchial passages. Dry heat is your enemy when you’re experiencing cold symptoms. If your home or office is dry, use a cool mist humidifier to put some humidity back in the air.

Eating salt-free soups loaded with vegetables can help increase your nutrient intake and loosen congestion. I start with a sodium-free soup base and add in spices, onions, spinach, broccoli, and other greens until it’s more stew-like than soup-like. Caffeine-free hot teas will also help loosen congestion and keep you hydrated.

Does Zinc reduce a cold’s duration?

You may have heard that zinc helps treat a cold. I have good news: it does!

According to a meta-analysis that included 13 trials, zinc in any form taken within 24 hours of your first symptoms may reduce the duration of a cold by at least one day (1). Even more importantly, zinc may significantly reduce the severity of your symptoms throughout, improving your quality of life. This may be due to an anti-inflammatory effect.

One of the studies, published in the Journal of Infectious Disease, found that zinc reduced the duration of the common cold by almost 50 percent from seven days to four days, cough symptoms were reduced by greater than 60 percent, and nasal discharge was reduced by 33 percent (2). Researchers used 13 grams of zinc acetate per lozenge taken three-to-four times daily for four days. This translates into 50-65 mg per day.

Be aware, however, that there are a few serious concerns with zinc. First, the dose researchers used was well above the maximum intake recommended by the National Institutes of Health, which is 40 mg per day for adults. This maximum intake number is less for those 18 and younger (3). Also, the FDA has warned against nasal zinc administration with sprays, which has led to permanent loss of smell for some people.

Not all studies showed a benefit. Also, studies where there was a proven benefit may have used different formulations, delivery systems and dosages, and there is no current recommendation or consensus on what is optimal.

Does vitamin C help cure a cold?

According to a review of 29 trials with a combined population of over 11,000, vitamin C did not show any significant benefit in preventing or reducing cold symptoms or duration in the general population (4). With this in mind, there may be no reason to take mega-doses of vitamin C for cold prevention and treatment. However, in a sub-group of serious marathon runners and other athletes, there was substantial risk reduction when taking vitamin C prophylactically; they caught 50 percent fewer colds.

Is echinacea a possible cure?

After review of 24 controlled clinical trials, the Cochrane Database notes that the jury is still out on the effectiveness of echinacea for treatment of duration and symptoms, but the results are disappointing and inconsistent (5). There are no valid randomized clinical trials showing cold prevention using echinacea.

In a randomized controlled trial with 719 patients, echinacea was no better than placebo for the treatment of the common cold (6).

Should you exercise or not?

People with colds need rest — at least that was the theory. However, a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine may change this perception. Participants who did aerobic exercise at least five days per week, versus one or fewer days per week, had a 43 percent reduction in the number of days with colds over two 12-week periods during the fall and winter months (7). Even more interesting is that those who reported themselves as being highly fit had a 46 percent reduction in the number of days with colds compared to those who perceived themselves to have low fitness. Their cold symptoms were reduced significantly as well.

What are our takeaways?

For symptom relief, simple home remedies may actually work better than supplements. Zinc might be useful in treating and preventing the common cold. Use caution with dosing, however, to reduce its side effects. Echinacea and vitamin C have not been proven to provide benefits, but don’t stop taking them if you feel they help you. Lastly, exercise might actually reduce your cold’s duration.

References:

(1) Open Respir Med J. 2011; 5: 51–58. (2) J Infect Dis. 2008 Mar 15;197(6):795-802. (3) ods.od.nih.gov. (4) Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD000980. (5) Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2014, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD000530. (6) Ann Intern Med. 2010;153(12):769-777. (7) British Journal of Sports Medicine 2011;45:987-992.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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Photo courtesy of Gallery North

In perfect timing with the season, Gallery North in Setauket presents its annual group exhibition of small original works for holiday giving, Deck the Halls, from Nov. 16 to Dec. 22.

Enjoy artwork by over 50 local and regional artists in a range of media, including painting, printmaking, works on paper, sculpture, glassware, and more. The exhibition offers an excellent opportunity to support local artists, and features a diverse selection of affordable, exciting, original artworks for everyone on your list and is generously sponsored by WFC Architects and Jefferson’s Ferry. 

In addition, Gallery North also features a large assortment of artisan-created jewelry, handmade crafts, and decorations within the Shop at Gallery North, as well as clothing and artist-made greeting cards produced in the Studio at Gallery North. They also offer the gift of an art class or workshop to an aspiring artist, child, or adult. 

As a complement to the exhibition, Gallery North will host a Holiday Gift Bazaar, a special holiday gift market inside the Gallery and the Studio on Dec. 9 from noon to 7 p.m. 

The purpose of the Holiday Gift Bazaar is to provide the community with an alternative to holiday shopping in malls and shopping centers. The event will offer an excellent opportunity to support local artists and businesses, complete with warm beverages and treats from LevelUp Kitchen. 

Holiday shoppers will find a diverse selection of affordable, exciting, original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, pottery, woodwork, glassware, artisan created jewelry, handmade crafts, decorations, and clothing — perfect gifts for everyone on your list. 

‘Tis the season to shop local!

Located at 90 North Country Road in  Setauket, Gallery North is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-751-2676 or visit www.gallerynorth.org. 

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A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A SYMBOL OF HOPE Celebrate the holidays with Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim at Theatre Three’s ‘A Christmas Carol.’ The show runs through Dec. 30. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
A scene from Theatre Three's 'A Christmas Carol'. Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com
The 2023 cast of 'A Christmas Carol'

By Stephanie Giunta

Almost 180 years ago, Charles Dickens gave us the immortal gift of A Christmas Carol, which has become a pillar of holiday culture and a reminder to hold the spirit of the season near and dear. 

Port Jefferson’s Main Street, already adorned with wreaths on the lamp posts in preparation for its 27th annual Charles Dickens Festival, was only trumped by Theatre Three’s warmth and inviting decor during last Saturday’s opening night performance of the holiday classic. Carolers, singing familiar tunes before the show, further ignited the magic of Christmas in the air. 

Revisited, adapted, and never told quite the same way twice, Theatre Three’s version transports the audience back to 19th century England for an introspective, festive excursion that touches hearts and minds in a profound way. Jeffrey Sanzel, the show’s executive artistic director who doubles as the stingy curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge, reinvents the show each season, bringing a unique twist and newfound beauty to the timeless tale. 

Sanzel’s versatility is remarkable; his expressive nature and ability to portray a character with such complex, emotional layers is exceptional. Along with the power of his reprimands, I could feel Scrooge’s sardonic “Good Afternoon!” down to my bones. I felt like I was being asked to leave the office along with his chipper and persistent nephew, Fred Halliwell (Sean Amato) and warm and loving clerk, Bob Cratchit (Ray Gobes Jr.) on Christmas Eve. Both Fred, joyful and optimistic, and Bob, loyal and dedicated, are talented bookends who symbolize the redemption, compassion, and transformative power of the Christmas spirit over even the harshest of humans. 

The Fezziwig duo, played by the talented Stephen T. Wangner and Ginger Dalton, are the essence of fanciful charm. Their playful interaction and bubbly nature personify the merriment of the season. I could smell their mince pies, plum porridge, and zest for life from a mile away. In tandem, daughter, Belle Fezziwig (Julia Albino), wonderfully captures Scrooge’s heart, but pivots beautifully to letting him go to his newfound love: money.

A flawless performance from the three spirits is not to forget. Cassidy Rose O’Brien is angelic as the Ghost of Christmas Past, walking Scrooge through a painful review of his mistakes and heartbreaks, including the loss of his relationship with Belle, and the deaths of his older sister, Fan (Alexa Eichinger, Brooke Morrison) and partner, Jacob Marley (Steven Uihlein). 

I was particularly enthralled with the scene in which townspeople are asking Scrooge to “Buy” or “Sell.” There are so many overlapping dialogues intersecting at once, providing the audience with a line of sight into Scrooge’s psyche, and how he may be processing the key occurrences of his past simultaneously. It was brilliant.

The Ghost of Christmas Present (Wangner) has a belly laugh that echoes throughout the theater, yet showcases the firm, tough love Scrooge needs to realize the gravity of matters at hand.

Lastly, I mouthed “wow” when the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come (Amato) appeared on stage. What a vision! The scenes that follow produce a scared-straight version of Scrooge that even he didn’t know existed. 

I would be remiss in mentioning the short scene featuring Mrs. Dilber, Scrooge’s housekeeper (Dalton), in which she was inebriated on his gravesite. Her quick wit and boisterous mirth adds an unexpected and appreciated twang of comedy to the performance.

Randall Parsons and Jason Allyn truly bring 19th century England to Port Jefferson through beautiful production design and authentic costuming. The audience is transported through time with spine-tingling special effects by Robert W. Henderson Jr., and Brad Frey injects jollity into the atmosphere with signature Victorian carols and hymnal tunes. 

When I first saw A Christmas Carol about 20 years ago, I remember being impressed with Scrooge and the cast because they made the story feel so real. Through an adult lens, it was even more apparent. Somehow, Sanzel and the cast are able to draw out a variety of emotions, connecting you not only to Christmas, but the treasures of giving of yourself to those less fortunate, being kind to others, and finding happiness. It’s a show that plays on the heartstrings in so many different capacities, reminding children and adults alike of what is most important during the holidays.

Theatre Three makes Christmas spirit feel so tangible that you can wrap it up in a box with a big, red bow. Bravo to Sanzel and the cast for bringing something so wonderful to life! Be sure to stick around post-performance for a photo memento with Scrooge. The $5 charge contributes to the theater’s scholarship fund.

CAST & CREW: Julia Albino, Jason Allyn, Sean Amato, Karin Bagan, Steven Barile Jr., Kyle M. Breitenbach, Mairead Camas, Shannon Cooper, Ginger Dalton, Alexa Eichinger, Angelina Eybs, Sari Feldman, Griffin Fleming, Brad Frey, Julie Friedman, Christina Gobes, Ray Gobes Jr., Skye Greenberg, Tim Haggerty, Kathleen Arabelle Han, Robert W. Henderson Jr., Patrick Hutchinson, Zach Kanakaris, Linda May, Brooke Morrison, Cassidy Rose O’Brien, Randall Parsons, William Roslak, Jeffrey Sanzel, Finn Thomas, Isabela Thomsen, Melissa Troxler, Steven Uihlein, Addyson Urso, Stephen T. Wangner, Cassidy Worrell, Kaylin Zeidler and Stanley Zinger

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson will present “A Christmas Carol” through Dec. 30. All tickets are $25 in November and range from $25 to $40 in December. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

See a trailer of the show here.

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Huey, Dewey and Louie

MEET HUEY, DEWEY AND LOUIE!

This week’s featured shelter pets are Huey, Dewey and Louie, three male Pekin Ducks that were abandoned in a local park. They are now safe at the Smithtown Animal Shelter and are ready to be adopted.

Domestic fowl are not well suited to living in the wild and often are picked on by the local birds; these boys were no exception. They were huddled together on the shore, scared and confused. 

The shelter is not equipped to house any animals except cats and dogs. These boys deserve a pond or pool to hang out in and safe shelter from predators and extreme weather. They all love to eat and waddle around making adorable duck sounds. You cannot help but to be happy in their presence. Let’s help them find their perfect happily ever after!

The 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.

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Discover the magic of the holidays with Theatre Three's 'Barnaby Saves Christmas.' The show opens this weekend. Photo courtesy of Theatre Three
PROGRAMS

Thankful Thursday at the Vanderbilt

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Reichert Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will present a  Thankful Thursday event on Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. Enjoy a free family-friendly planetarium show followed by night-sky viewing in the Observatory. Topics may include seasonal constellations, visible planets, galaxies, nebulae, and more. Recommended for ages 6 and up. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will host a First Steps into Nature program titled Furry Friends: Bunnies Opossums, Squirrels and Hedgehogs on Nov. 17 and 24.  Little ones will learn about nature through hands on activities, music, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. Class for ages 2 to 3 years old is at 9:30 a.m., class for ages 3 and 4 years old is at 1:30 p.m. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344 

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven continues its free nature program series with Growing Up Wild at the Cedar Beach Nature Center, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai on Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. Children ages 3 to 6 will learn about leaves and trees and how honeybees and other species prepare for the winter months. Preregistration required by emailing [email protected].

THEATER

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off the holiday season with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 18 to Dec. 30. As Barnaby the elf and his reindeer friend Franklynne 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 tickets are $12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Frosty’

Frosty returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Nov. 25 to Dec. 31. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Frozen Jr.’

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main Street, Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Dec. 2 to Jan. 21, 2024. The magical land of Arendelle comes to life onstage. When faced with danger, princesses Elsa and Anna discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $25 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

FILM

‘The Polar Express’

Put on your PJ’s and join the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce for a Polar Express Experience at the Chamber Train Car, corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station for the holidays. Screenings of The Polar Express will be held at 6 p.m. on Nov. 16, 17, 30, Dec, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22; and at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Nov. 18, 19, Dec. 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 and 23. $20 per person includes a bag of popcorn, bottle of water, hot chocolate, cookie, bell, and a visit with Santa! To register, visit www.PJSTChamber.com.

‘Spy Kids’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Spy Kids on Nov. 19 at noon. Top international spies Gregorio and Ingrid Cortez are separated from their family and kidnapped by the evil Fegan Floop. Fortunately, there are two people who possess the skills and know-how to reunite the family: their kids. Rated PG. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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STRUMMING ALONG Singer/songwriter James Maddock heads to the Long Island Museum in Stony Brook for a Sunday Street concert on Nov. 19.
Thursday Nov. 16

Thankful Thursday at the Vanderbilt

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Reichert Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will present a  Thankful Thursday event at 7 p.m. Enjoy a free family-friendly planetarium show followed by night-sky viewing in the Observatory.Topics vary depending on the time of year but may include seasonal constellations, visible planets, galaxies, nebulae, and more. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Friday Nov. 17

Holiday Craft Fair

Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn presents its 12th annual Friends Holiday Craft Fair today and Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for handcrafted gift items from various vendors in the Library meeting rooms and art gallery hallway. Questions? Call 631-757-4200.

Holiday Light Show

The Riverhead Holiday Light Show, 149 Edwards Ave., Calverton kicks off tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. and continues on Nov. 18 and 19 from 5 to 9 p.m. Runs through Dec. 30. The largest drive-through light show in Suffolk County features dozens of dazzling displays to delight the entire family! Tickets can be purchased online at www.holidaylightshow.com.

Holiday Train Show

The St. James Model Railroad Club will hold its annual Holiday Open House at the Mills Pond House, 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James tonight from 6 to 9 p.m., Nov.  18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Children of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of this truly impressive holiday event. Requested donations are $2 for adults, 50¢ children. Please note: The St. James Model Railroad club is not handicap accessible. For further information, call 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732 (evenings).

Owl Prowl Friday

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents an Owl Prowl from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Meet behind the main house and check in. Bring a flashlight. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Northport Symphony Concert

The Northport Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Eric Mahl, will present a concert of classical music at Commack Middle School, 700 Vanderbilt Parkway, Commack at 8 p.m. The concert will feature Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky; Finlandia by Jean Sibelius and The Tender Land Suite by Aaron Copland. Tickets are $15 per person at the door. www.northportsymphony.org.

Saturday Nov. 18

Holiday Light Show

See Nov. 17 listing.

Holiday Train Show

See Nov. 17 listing.

Polar Bear Plunge

Town of Brookhaven will host the 14th annual Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai at 11:30 a.m. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The annual event is held to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics New York athletes in the Long Island region. For more information, or to register online, please visit www.polarplungeny.org\brookhaven.

School Craft Fair

Walt Whitman High School, 301 West Hills Road, Huntington Station presents its 22nd annual Holiday Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring over 100 vendors with hand-crafted items—  the perfect place to find one of a kind items for everyone on your holiday shopping list. 631-549-8582

Mt. Sinai PTO Holiday Craft Fair

Mount Sinai Middle School, 114 North Country Road, Mount Sinai will host the Mount Sinai PTO’s Craft Fair & Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 75 local vendors and artists selling handcrafted and unique items, stocking stuffers, 50/50 raffle, refreshments and photos with Santa. 631-870-2700

Caleb Smith Hike

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

Turkey Trot Run / Walk 5k

Join the North Shore Youth Council and Red Woods Fitness for the 2nd annual 5K Turkey Trot at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai at 10 a.m. Kids and adults, come on down for a fun morning to walk or run the 5k and participate in other engaging fitness activities. Stay for lunch and fuel up with food trucks at the park! $10 entry per participant. Spectators welcome. Proceeds benefit NSYC’s Thanksgiving and Holiday Giving initiatives for families in need in our local communities. Register online at www.givebutter.com/heritageturkeytrot.

Santaport Fair

A holiday tradition returns! Centerport United Methodist Church, 97 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Santaport from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This beloved holiday fair features jewelry, housewares, toys, a silent auction of themed gift baskets, Men’s World bargains and more. Bring your own camera for a photo with Santa (free!) and enjoy the Luncheon Cafe with homemade quiche, pies, soups, and BBQ. Book signing with Raising Betty author Sarah Zagaja and Fenway the therapy dog! For more information, call 631-261-5222. 

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 per adult, $5 per child under age 12. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Denim Designer Workshop

Join Celebrate St. James for a Denim Designer Workshop at the Calderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Be your own denim designer at a fun-filled workshop led by Beth Drucker. Tickets are $25, $20 members and includes basic painting supplies. Bring your own denim piece and personal embellishments.  Light brunch will be served. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org.

SPC Line Dancing

Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket will host a line dancing event featuring Stepping Easy with Ellen from 4 to 6 p.m. $10 per person at the door, children 12 and under free. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 631-941-4271.

Three Village Lights Launch Night

You’re invited to the Three Village Lights Launch Night for Angela’s House at 44 Mills Road, Stony Brook from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy hot chocolate and pictures with Santa, hear new songs and crowd favorites, and take a photo in front of the Selfie Wings. www.3vlights.com

Basket Auction

St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church, 4 Woodville Road Shoreham will hold a Basket Auction fundraiser at 6 p.m. with fantastic baskets, raffles, 50/50 and more! Proceeds will benefit Hope Children’s Fund and St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church. For more information, call 631-744-7730.

Charity Auction Fundraiser

The Moose Lodge, 37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai will host the annual charity auction by the Women of the Moose. Doors open at 6 p.m. $10 admission includes 25 tickets. Refreshments available for purchase. For more information, call 631-846-1651 or 631-398-4438.

Sunday Nov. 19

Holiday Light Show

See Nov. 17 listing.

Holiday Train Show

See Nov. 17 listing.

Flowerfield Car Show

“Long Island Cars” Fall Harvest Car Show & Swap Meet heads to Flowerfield Fairground, Route 25A, St. James from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hundreds of  classic and collectible automobiles including show cars from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s,  one-of-a-kind custom cars, antiques, exotics, muscle cars, street rods, trucks and imports will be on display along with vendors, live music, fun fair food and more. There is something for every member of the family to enjoy. $10 admission, children ages 12 and under are free. 631-567-5898 or LongIslandCars.com.

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a Highground Hike from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Venture through the woods for a walk on the park’s high ground trails along the Long Island Greenbelt for amazing views of the Long Island Sound. Adults only. $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

James Maddock in Concert

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook continues its Sunday Street Series collaboration with the Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council, and WUSB with James Maddock in concert in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 5 p.m. The singer/songwriter will perform new songs from his latest studio album, “Night Work.” Accompanying Maddock on the Steinway concert piano and accordion is Brian Mitchell. Tickets are $30 in advance at www.sundaystreet.org/$35 at the door. 

Sound Symphony Concert

Comsewogue High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station welcomes the Sound Symphony Orchestra in concert at 2 p.m. Program includes Schumann: Symphony No. 4; Tchaikovsky: Rococo Variations (Theme and Variations I, II, V, VI, and VII), featuring soloist Aurelia Faidley, cello; Alfven: Midsommar: Swedish Rhapsody and Anderson: Sleigh Ride. Admission at the door is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students, children under 12 are free. www.soundsymphony.org

Monday Nov. 20

No events listed for this day.

Tuesday Nov. 21

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a screening of That’s Dancing narrated by Gene Kelly, which covers Hollywood’s history of dancing in movies, in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday Nov. 22

Port Jefferson Tree Lighting

Join the Port Jefferson Business Improvement District (BID) for their 2nd annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the intersection of Broadway and East Broadway at 6:30 p.m. Watch Santa light the tree and enjoy live holiday music by Erik McCormack from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with free hot chocolate and candy canes. www.portjeff.com

Thursday Nov. 23

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Foot Races

Miller Avenue School, 3 Miller Ave., Shoreham will host the annual Shoreham-Wading River Thanksgiving Foot Races at 8 a.m. with a 5k, 5-mile and 1-mile runs for various ages. Proceeds benefit scholarships. Fee is $15 in advance, $20 race day. Call 631-821-8116 or visit www.swrschools.org. 

Turkey Trot

The 16th annual Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s 5k Turkey Trot at Nissequogue River State Park, 799 St. Johnland Road, Kings Park will kick off with a Fun Run for Kids at 8:30 a.m. followed by the Turkey Trot at 9 a.m. Enjoy free hot chocolate, coffee and food and activities for the kids. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers. Entry fee is $24 in advance, $30 day of race, $10 Fun Run. To register, visit www.ourstatepark.com.

Thanksgiving Day Run

American Legion Hall, 1 Mill Dam Rd., Halesite will host the Townwide Fund of Huntington’s 4-mile Thanksgiving Day Run with a Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. and 4k Run at 9 a.m.  Fees are $30 in advance, $45 day of race, $15 fun run. Call 631-629-4950 visit www.townwidefund.org.

Theater

‘The Play That Goes Wrong’

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present The Play That Goes Wrong at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, Suffolk County Community College, Ammerman Campus, 533 College Road, Selden on Nov. 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. An unconscious leading lady, a corpse who can’t play dead, a ruffled detective, and a word-mangling butler (among others) must battle against technical gaffes, forgotten lines, and sabotaging scenery in a quest to arrive all in one piece at the final curtain call. General admission tickets are $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets, call 631-451-4163. See review on page B21.

‘Elf The Musical’

The Community Playhouse of Northport kicks off the holiday season with a main stage production of Elf the Musical at the Brosnan Theater, 158 Laurel Avenue, Northport on Nov. 9, 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 12 and 19 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. The Sunday performances will include a meet the cast (Santa and company!) at 1:30 pm. To order visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’

“I will honor Christmas in my heart…” Celebrate the season with A Christmas Carol at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 11 to Dec. 30. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present, and future. Join them for the  38th annual production of the immortal classic in all of its thrills, music, joy, and spirit. Please note: No children under 5 are permitted. All seats are $25 in November. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children in December. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B13.

‘Every Christmas Story Ever Told’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) from Nov. 25 to Dec. 23. Three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told — plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture, and every carol ever sung. A madcap romp through the holiday season! Tickets are $32 adults, $30 seniors, $28 students. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’

Join the Minstrel Players at Houghton Hall,  Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport for their annual production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults $15 seniors and students. To order, email [email protected].

Film

‘99 Minutes from Broadway’

Celebrate St. James continues its Classic Movie Series at the Calderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James with a screening of 99 Minutes from Broadway: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to St. James at 1 p.m. Learn the history of St. James and the vaudevillians who summered here at the turn of the century. Tickets are $25 $20 seniors. To register, call 631-984-0201 or visit www.celebratestjames.org.

Class Reunions

•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].

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Photo courtesy of WMHO

Time to shop! Black Friday returns to the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook on Friday, November 24. Shop Black Friday store sales all day long throughout the village, with holiday favorites by the Celestial Holiday Carolers and a petting zoo by Rocking Horse Farm in the inner court from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Make a stop at The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame to view their new exhibit: Billy Joel: My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey at 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.limusichalloffame.org.

A full list of Black Friday sales will be available online at stonybrookvillage.com. For more information, call 631-751-2244.

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Image from PSEG LI

For a short, informational PSEG Long Island video on utility scams, click here.

Autumn’s cool temperatures and wet weather are in full effect, but scammers are still putting the heat on homes and businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways, impersonating PSEG Long Island and area utilities and demanding immediate payment. On Utility Scam Awareness Day, Nov. 15, PSEG Long Island urges customers to get wise to scammers’ tactics and do the right thing if confronted with a demand for payment and a threat of imminent shutoff: Get the truth from the real PSEG Long Island at 1-800-490-0025.

“Scammers try to blindside you with an urgent problem in the hopes that you panic and miss all the clues that they’re not who they appear to be,” said Lou DeBrino, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Customer Services. “PSEG Long Island wants customers to remember one simple thing: If someone threatens to immediately shut off your power and demands payment, stop and call the number that’s printed on your bill to verify before acting.”

More than 4,200 scam calls have been reported to PSEG Long Island so far in 2023. Many of these scammers are demanding immediate payment via web-based electronic payment services. PSEG Long Island does not accept external, web-based electronic payment services (outside of payments through My Account) as a method of payment.

What customers should know about payment scams

  • Scammers impersonating PSEG Long Island most frequently threaten to shut off power immediately unless payment is made.
  • Many scammers use phone “spoofing” technology to make their number display on your phone as “PSEG Long Island.”
  • PSEG Long Island will never request that customers use one specific method of payment.
  • Scammers typically want their victims to transfer money via a web-based electronic payment service, a prepaid debit card, or even Bitcoin, sometimes asking people to buy a prepaid card at the nearest convenience store and then to read them the PIN over the phone.
  • PSEG Long Island does not accept web-based electronic payment services, prepaid debit cards or Bitcoin as payment.
  • Sometimes phone scammers will demand a deposit for a priority meter installation. PSEG Long Island does not require a deposit for meter installations.
  • If a customer has doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email — especially one in which payment is requested — they should call the company directly at 1-800-490-0025.

In-person visits

Occasionally, scammers may go door to door impersonating PSEG Long Island employees, flashing a fake ID and/or claiming to be a utility collection representative. The impostors may wear “uniforms” or affix false company signs to their vehicles. The scammers generally ask for personal information, which real utility representatives do not do, or offer bogus discounts. Again, if customers have any doubts, they should not let the person in, and should call 1-800-490-0025 to verify.

PSEG Long Island employees must carry a company ID and present it when requested. If customers have doubts, do not let the person into the house and call 1-800-490-0025 to have a customer service representative verify that an employee has been dispatched to the location. An actual PSEG Long Island employee will respect the customer’s decision and remain outside. If the person escalates their efforts to enter the home, customers should consider calling 911.

Fake websites

The theme of this year’s Utility Scam Awareness Day is “Screen the Search,” which reflects the rise in utility impostor scams through digital methods, including search engine-related scams.

Some scammers purchase web domains that closely resemble the actual URL of a utility and create a fraudulent replica of the legitimate website. Their plan is to dupe users who click on these fake sites via search results, or type in an inaccurate web address. Once on the spoofed site, a visitor is presented a number of bill payment options, all pointing back to an outside bill pay site.

PSEG Long Island always uses the “.com” domain. Its real website can be found at www.psegliny.com.

How actual PSEG Long Island reps handle phone calls

Customers should also know what PSEG Long Island will and won’t discuss over the phone. A genuine PSEG Long Island representative will ask to speak to the Customer of Record. If that person is available, the representative will explain why they are calling and provide the account name, address and current balance. If the person on the phone does not provide the correct information, it is likely the customer is not speaking with a PSEG Long Island representative.

If the Customer of Record is not available, the PSEG Long Island representative will not discuss the account at all and ask that a message be left for the Customer of Record to call 1-800-490-0025.

PSEG Long Island is a member of the Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS) collaborative. UUAS, a consortium of more than 150 U.S. and Canadian electric, water, and natural gas utilities and their respective trade associations, continues to raise customer awareness of common scams and new scam tactics used by utility impostors. Through its work and with the help of customer reporting, UUAS has successfully helped to take more than 14,020 toll-free numbers used by scammers against utility customers out of operation.

For more information on various payment scams reported in the PSEG Long Island service area and around the country, visit https://www.psegliny.com/myaccount/customersupport/scamsandfraud.

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Squiggle Coffee Table from CAM Design by Chris Miano

For the month of November, the Reboli Center for Art and History in Stony Brook Village is showcasing the work of furniture designer and former Stony Brook resident Chris Miano.

Chris Miano is back home in Stony Brook, having grown up here until he went to the Parsons School of Design/The New School in Manhattan. As his family still lives here, he is a frequent visitor to the area, as well as The Reboli Center since he is an art collector and enthusiast.

CAM Design by Chris Miano

As a young man, Chris became interested in carpentry when he started helping his father with construction projects around the house.  He had no idea that all of that tinkering would result in a career as a furniture designer/woodworker as those lessons and projects led him to pursue a degree in Industrial Design.

After graduating Parsons, Chris started working for Allen Heller, who was his mentor at Parsons. “I learned a lot from him, but found myself itching to be back in an environment that built items instead of doing computer work. So, I found myself a job in a woodshop just to make sure that it was something I wanted to do full-time. I came across a studio in New Jersey that was looking for a furniture maker. I accepted and worked out a deal that I could use his studio after hours for building my own pieces,” said Chris. After canvassing businesses in the area where he lived, he was commissioned to do a project for Epicurious, building a photography surface. They were located in the World Trade Center and one of the chefs was opening a restaurant and was looking for someone to build the entire table top collection. “It was an opportunity I could not refuse so I created an LLC, found a vacant space and enlisted my father, uncle and co-worker to help me meet the deadline. I had four weeks to build over 70 pieces for the restaurant’s grand opening. I pulled all-nighters to complete the project and the rest is history,” added Chris. 

Full Length Squiggle Mirror from CAM Design by Chris Miano

While at Parsons, Chris had the opportunity to study at the Design Center in Copenhagen, which is the pinnacle of furniture design. His company, CAM Design Co., features tables, chairs, stools, mirrors, beds, chandeliers and other lighting fixtures. He is enamored by the traditional Japanese woodworking techniques and is influenced by the noted designer George Nakashima. For his creations, Chris favors such woods as American black walnut, red oak, white oak, maple and wormy maple. They are locally sourced. According to Chris, “My design process usually begins in one of my many sketchbooks or on a napkin in a restaurant. Once I am satisfied with a form, I get right to building. I typically plan out the construction process in my head. I prefer to do a prototype on a 1:1 scale to nail down the form. Then the piece is constructed. I’ll put oil on it or char it, depending on the finish I am looking to achieve. I like to put the emphasis on the natural characteristics of the material and allow them to be the star of the show. As I work to enhance my design skills, I look for inspiration from contemporary painters, sculptors and natural forms.”

Chris finishes his work in house and by hand. He prefers natural finishes like an oil-based finish  because it enhances the natural grains and characteristics of the wood. He has experimented with other finishes such as bleaching, ebonizing, oxidizing and the Japanese technique of Shou Bugi Ban, which is a torching process that preserves the wood. “Finishing the work can often be a time-consuming, multi-step process, but it is what really brings the piece to life, “said Chris. 

Over the years, Chris has invested in some incredible tools, however, his favorites are his grandfather’s hammer that he used while building the Brooklyn Bridge and a set of vintage chisels he bought at a yard sale.                                  

One of his most unusual and creative series is the Squiggle Collection, which he designed during the pandemic. He notes that the full-length Squiggle Mirror is a favorite of customers who try to figure out whether the wood has been steam-bent or sculpted. In fact, Chris received the Best Accessory Award at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) Show in 2022 for his Squiggle Mirror. 

His work has been displayed at galleries and museums such as The Future Factory and The Long Island Museum in Stony Brook. “Í am humbled and honored to be the Artisan of the Month and have my work on exhibit at The Reboli Center. Growing up in Stony Brook makes this even more special and meaningful to me,” said Chris.

Chris Miano’s furniture is available at the Reboli Center, 64 Main Street, Stony Brook, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p. m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, please call 631-751-7707 or visit www.reboilcenter.org

 

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The Bethpage Turkey Drive to benefit the Island Harvest Food Bank will take place on Friday, November 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Bethpage’s headquarters located at 899 South Oyster Bay Road in Bethpage. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Long Island’s largest one-day food drive which to date, has donated more than 45,000 turkeys and over 200,000 pounds of food over 15 years to Island Harvest which helps supply Thanksgiving holiday meals to families in our community.

Long Islanders are asked to donate frozen turkeys, non-perishable food items or cash donations. Bethpage’s Drive Through Donation Lanes will allow residents to remain in their cars while volunteers remove donations from the vehicles. The donations will go directly to Island Harvest Food Bank, which will help supply Thanksgiving meals to the more than 300,000 food-insecure Long Islanders through its distribution network of over 400 food pantries, soup kitchens, and other feeding programs on Long Island. Non-perishable food items needed include canned goods, cereal, pasta, rice, boxed juices, and shelf-stable milk (please, no glass containers).

For the first time, Bethpage is issuing a Corporate Challenge encouraging local businesses and organizations to donate the largest amount of frozen turkeys and non-perishables and then drop off their donations on November 17.  The business that provides the largest donation will be sent an ice cream truck to their location for all employees to enjoy. To join the challenge, Long Island businesses and organizations can sign up here.

“Bethpage is focused on enriching the lives of the communities we serve and we are able to accomplish this by collaborating and partnering with businesses across Long Island. So this year, we are very excited to see the impact the new Corporate Challenge brings to this important event,” said Linda Armyn, President and CEO, Bethpage Federal Credit Union.  “As always, our heartfelt thanks go out to the Long Island community for its ongoing support. Every donation counts.”

For those unable to make a donation on November 17, or would rather show their support online, Bethpage is accepting online monetary donations. Every gift of $35 will help support a holiday meal for your Long Island neighbors. Donations can also be made at any Bethpage branch.

“For the past 15 years, we have been fortunate to partner with our good friends at Bethpage Federal Credit Union on what has become Long Island’s largest turkey and food collection event to help our less fortunate neighbors know the joy of a traditional holiday-style meal,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, President & CEO, Island Harvest Food Bank. “On behalf of the people we serve, we thank Bethpage Federal Credit Union, its leadership, and employees at every level for their deep caring and concern in helping us support people struggling to put food on their tables.”

Patches will be given to all Girl Scouts who make a donation. Troop leaders can make a donation on behalf of troop members and bring back patches for the entire troop.

Since the first Bethpage Turkey Drive was organized in 2008, hundreds of community volunteers have come out to assist in the collection of more than 45,000 turkeys and over 200,000 pounds of food, which were then given to Long Island families facing hardship in time for the holidays. Island Harvest Food Bank has seen an increase in the requests for food and support services among the 400 community-based agencies it serves. About 70,000 individuals receive food assistance from the Island Harvest Food Bank network each week.

Island Harvest Food Bank

Island Harvest Food Bank is a leading human services organization whose mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island. We accomplish this through innovative programs and services aimed at enhanced hunger awareness, short-term case management, nutrition

education, outreach and advocacy initiatives, a Workforce Skills Development Institute, our organic farm, and efficient food collection and distribution. Our work directly supports children,

families, seniors, and veterans who turn to us in times of crisis and when needed and supports a network of 300 community-based nonprofit organizations. Island Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America®, a nationwide network of food banks leading the effort to solve hunger in the U.S. To learn more, visit www.islandharvest.org.

Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Bethpage Federal Credit Union is a premier community financial institution committed to enriching the lives of its members, employees, and the communities it serves for the past 80 years. Bethpage is the largest credit union in the Northeast Region, and the 15th largest in the nation.

As a not-for-profit credit union, Bethpage is committed to its members and the communities it serves. In addition to giving back to its members in the form of great rates and low fees, the Bethpage Cares program invests heavily in local, high-impact community programs that serve with an eye towards creating better communities through diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

Voted the Glass Door Top Place to Work for Small & Midsize companies, Bethpage is a federally chartered credit union, available to people nationwide who open a $5 dollar membership account. Bethpage offers a robust digital platform that allows members to bank from anywhere. Bethpage is a part of the national CO-OP network that gives members access to their accounts at over 30,000 free ATMs and 5,000+ shared branches across the U.S. As a financial cooperative, Bethpage offers the best-in market rates, lowest fees and world-class service, plus a full menu of personal and commercial financial services. For more information on Bethpage’s robust portfolio of banking, borrowing, and investment services, visit www.lovebethpage.com or call 1-800- 628-7070.

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