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By Bob Lipinski

Bob Lipinski

‘Happiness is having a rare steak, a bottle of whisky, and a dog to eat the rare steak.’

— Johnny Carson, 1925-2005, Television Host and Comedian

Whiskey, a brown-colored distilled spirit, is made in over 50 countries. Whiskey, by definition, is an alcoholic distillate made from a fermented mash of various grains distilled at less than 190-proof. Whiskeys are distinguished by the grain used, the proof at which the mash is distilled, and the age. 

The major categories of whiskey produced globally are American Blended, Bourbon, Canadian, Corn, Irish, Japanese, Rye, Scotch, and Tennessee.

Enjoying whiskey with food

Whiskey mixes well with water, seltzer, cola, and ginger ale, and is a base for countless recipes and concoctions. Yet how many people enjoy whiskey with food? Basically, there is a general lack of knowing how to pair whiskey with food and which whiskies to use.

When looking for a whiskey to pair with food, there are many things to consider… different countries, grain blends, proof levels, and types of whiskey (blended, malt, straight), cask strength, single barrel, small batch, and so forth. Also, how long the whiskey was aged in wood, the type of wood used for aging, and “finishing” woods, which are popular among distillers. As much as 60 to 70 percent of the aroma and flavor of whiskey comes from the aging process in new, charred barrels (less for second-use barrels).

Look for similarities in the smell and taste of the whiskey and the food to be paired. As an example, most whiskey has an aroma and flavor of nuts (derived from barrel aging), so a dessert containing nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, walnuts, and so forth) would be a good match.

Other aroma and flavor descriptors

Whiskies that have aromas and flavors of cocoa, caramel, maple sugar, and ginger can be enjoyed with desserts and various sauces.

Whiskies that have fruit aromas and flavors like apple, dates, figs, honey, orange, and raisins can be paired with meats and poultry containing fruit glazes.

Whiskies that have aromas and flavors of spices, such as black and white pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, are great for meat with dry rubs.

Whiskies with aromas and flavors of oak, vanilla, smoke, black coffee, and toasted nuts pair with smoked, grilled, and blackened meats, pulled pork, and smoky mushrooms. Other foods to pair with smoked elements are most smoked fish, cheese, turkey, and game, and briny oysters with a smoky-briny Scotch whisky.

Bob Lipinski is the author of 10 books, including “101: Everything You Need To Know About Whiskey” and “Italian Wine & Cheese Made Simple” (available on Amazon.com). He consults and conducts training seminars on Wine, Spirits, and Food and is available for speaking engagements. He can be reached at www.boblipinski.com OR [email protected].

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Above, recycled wrapping paper from Wrappily.

A Column Promoting a More Earth-Friendly Lifestyle

By John L. Turner

John Turner

According to several Internet sources Americans throw away 2.3 million pounds (1,150 tons) of wrapping paper each year, much during the holiday season. This is enough paper to circle our fragile planet 9 times! So, this holiday season, why not give a gift to the Earth by wrapping your presents with wrapping paper made from recycled paper. Better yet, use existing paper such as easily recycled newspaper or place the present in a reusable bag or wrapped in a reusable cloth.   

Above, recycled wrapping paper from Wrappily.

There are a few companies that offer wrapping paper made from recycled materials. Wrappily is one company that offers recycled wrapping paper; it’s made from newspaper. For those of the Jewish faith, Uncommon Goods also offers wrapping paper made from recycled materials; their products contain various Hanukkah designs.

There are a number of options if wrapping cloths, which can be used over and over again, interests you. These cloths, known as furoshiki, are popular in Japan as a means to conceal presents and are growing in popularity here.  Many companies offer these products on-line. When thinking about those you love this holiday season, don’t forget Mother Earth!

A resident of Setauket, author John Turner is conservation chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, author of “Exploring the Other Island: A Seasonal Nature Guide to Long Island” and president of Alula Birding & Natural History Tours.

 

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One of the items on display at the new exhibit. Photo by Tara Mae

By Tara Mae

Music is often a meander through memory; it enraptures listeners with emotional remembrance and resonance. Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame’s (LIMEHOF) newest exhibit, Billy Joel, My Life — A Piano Man’s Journey, is a nuanced trip through time and tempo so intuitively evocative that it seemed to stun the piano man himself.

Billy Joel visited the LIMEHOF to view the new exhibit on Nov. 21. Photo by Tara Mae/TBR News Media

“It is a little intimidating,” Billy Joel said to a gathering of press, LIMEHOF board members, and other inductees, at the exhibit preview on Tuesday, Nov. 21. LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo, Exhibit Designer Kevin O’Callaghan, and radio personality Bob Buchmann also spoke, remarking on Joel’s legacy and ongoing accomplishments. 

A retrospective revealed through multimedia, My Life spans more than 50 years of the Grammy Award winning artist’s life and career, beginning with his childhood on Long Island through his current residency at Madison Square Garden. With no announced end date, the show, on display now, is an audio-visual sensation. 

Featuring photos, video installations, personal memorabilia, artifacts, and, of course, music, the exhibit includes everything from Joel’s primary school class photo to set lists, instruments, a motorcycle, his MTV Video Music Awards, and many other personal paraphernalia.

“It was incredibly rewarding to watch Billy’s eyes as he was walking around the exhibit, saying, ‘Where did you guys get all of this stuff? It’s unbelievable,’” Canadeo said.

All the items, many from Joel’s personal collection, are notes in the score that comprise the soundtrack of his life. Visitors may enjoy their own theme songs as a jukebox offering Joel’s repertoire helps set the mood, and the piano he played on tour with Elton John rotates on a moving stage. Behind it, on a giant screen, footage plays of him performing at Shea Stadium. 

Providing a multi-tonal presentation of Joel’s evolution from struggling songman to undeniable superstardom, My Life is a multi-sensory experience. The exhibit is a comprehensive homage to Joel’s past, present, and passions. It embodies both the personal and professional elements of his life.

One of the items on display at the new exhibit. Photo by tara Mae/TBR. News Media

“People are going to be emotional and very impressed with what we have collected because they have not seen most of what we have here,” Canadeo added. “It really does represent Billy’s journey: from his humble beginning [on Long Island] to becoming one of the biggest music stars in the world. And, we cover pretty much every aspect of that, all the way through.”

Throughout this trajectory, Long Island arguably serves at both opening act and supporting player. “The show is not only a tribute to Billy, but it is a tribute to Billy’s relationship with Long Island,” Canadeo said. 

Tracing the development of the musician and the man, My Life chronicles different facets of Joel’s story: childhood in Hicksville; teenage keyboardist for the rock group The Hassles; working musician; motorcycle aficionado; and, world renowned artist with many multiplatinum albums to his name. 

This is the first time Joel has agreed to an exhibit of this nature. “We found that he had never agreed to doing an exhibition, ever. And so that was really the big conflict I had; the mission I had was to convince him to let us to do this. And the way I did it was the realization of his loyalty to his friends,” O’Callaghan said. “He is a very loyal guy. So, the show, if you look around, it is about his influences, people who influenced him and vice versa.”

Composed by music lovers for music lovers in honor of an internationally recognized music lover, the exhibit is tribute to more than Billy Joel; it is a communal celebration. Artist, exhibit architects, and audience share one fundamental trait: they are all fans. 

The exhibit lauds this musical reverence. A revelatory reflection on the sustenance for the soul music provides, My Life explores the scope of its impact. As patrons walk in, they are first greeted by The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show, a pivotal moment for the development of the modern music scene and Joel’s own artistic awakening. 

Other artists are represented as part of Joel’s musical development and devotion.  

“It is not only Billy Joel, we have on display Otis Redding, we have Paul McCartney, we have George Gershwin. [Joel] loved that idea of showcasing his influences and musical friends.  And, he actually said to me, ‘So, it is going to be a party with my friends,’ and I said, ‘It is going to be a party with your friends.’ And that’s what kind of sold him on it,” O’Callaghan added. 

That sense of camaraderie creates kinship between artist and appreciators as it permeates the exhibit’s atmosphere. Such a symphony of synchronicity is a symbiotic relationship that unites all participants in their mutual musical dedication. Bonds born of these shared interests are key components of My Life, incorporating both the keepsakes themselves and honoring those who treasure them.

Among the items donated by Joel are mementos lent by two of his biggest supporters, Eric Fellen and Paul Fierro. “They found us and were very generous and really this would not have happened without their help. It would have been a much, much softer show; we went over the top with what they had,” O’Callaghan said. 

Such enthusiasm underscores every aspect of My Life. Common appreciation for Joel encapsulates what the artist enjoys as well as the ways he is able to continue connecting with his listeners. 

“I love music…most people do, and I am very glad that we all ended up loving the same thing,” Joel said at the exhibit’s reception. 

Located at 97 Main Street, Stony Brook, LIMEHOF is open Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $35 for adults; $32.50 for seniors/veterans; and, $20 for students age 13+. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 

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From left, Richard O’Sullivan, Will Logan, and Heather Legnosky in a scene from the show. Photo by Jackie St. Louis/SPAC

By Stephanie Giunta

“What does today’s audience want in Christmas?” was one of the first questions posed at the onset of Smithtown Performing Arts Center’s Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!). The cast promised a jocular twist on the beloved holiday classics and a fresh look at timeless tales injected with modern-day pop culture — and they delivered. In fact, I think I heard Santa’s “Ho! Ho! Ho!” in both laughter and solidarity all the way from the North Pole.

The show, a whimsical combination of vaudeville, ad-lib, and traditional narration, was originally written by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez, and debuted in 2003 in Cape May, New Jersey. For the past 20 years, the show has been adapted across the country, and kept fresh and new with the poignant inclusion of topical media narratives. Even Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift made the cut!

Will Logan (Will), sets the stage by performing the timeless Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. Heather Legnosky (Heather) and Richard O’Sullivan (Rich) concede, but only because they are desperate to work to qualify for health insurance. Claiming the audience has grown bored of the same seasonal production they put on year after year, they convince Will to add a little spice to the performance —by cramming every Christmas story and holiday tradition into a comical hurricane of a variety show. And with this irreverent mash up, no Christmas carol or reference is safe. Especially your fruitcake. 

Directed by Jordan Hue, the trio takes the audience through a smattering of seasonal favorites, including The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and It’s A Wonderful Life. As someone who is a die-hard Christmas fan and has seen the Rankin Bass classics countless times, the actors used so many references to their comedic advantage. 

Specifically, Will’s portrayal of Hermey the bicuspid-obsessed elf who is a wannabe dentist, and Rich’s rendition of Yukon Cornelius [Rudolph], had me laughing. Not only do they deliver the lines from the show verbatim with some racy humor peppered in, their ability to mimic the original cartoon voice overs is so on point. 

Through the quick rush of all of the myths and memories, there are some surprisingly touching moments. Heather’s delivery of Linus’ monologue from A Charlie Brown Christmas was a beautiful, heartfelt moment among the stop-and-go kitschiness and jollity, allowing the audience to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. And with a snap of your fingers, the moment passes and the crew moves onto the Gift of the Magi, where Heather morphs into a new-age character straight from the Jersey Shore. 

Will, Heather, and Rich are gifted actors that have the ability to transition from scene to scene with speed and precision, keep the mood light, and the audience enthused. The creative overlap between storylines, especially the back-and-forth between A Christmas Carol and It’s A Wonderful Life lets their talent shine through. Their change in intonation, articulation and ability to play two roles simultaneously was only trumped by the fluidity of their overall performance. And Rich’s deadpan way of casually referring to Charles Dickens as ‘Chuck Dickens’ had me in stitches. 

The show takes a warm, soft feeling of Christmas and pokes fun in an off-the-cuff, non-traditional manner. It’s like a chocolate chip cookie with potato chips inside — sweet, but unexpectedly salty, and ultimately a solid combination. 

Put your sneakers on, and get ready for a high-speed run down memory lane filled with jaunty holiday innuendoes that will leave you laughing and craving peppermint hot chocolate.

Cast & Crew: Will Logan, Heather Legnosky, Richard O’Sullivan, Jordan Hue, Michael Mucciolo, Kelly Mucciolo, Joseph Castoro and Megan DelMonico

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main Street, Smithtown will present Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) through December 23. Recommended for ages 12 and up, tickets are $32 adults, $30 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 631-724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

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Peppermint Pie

By Heidi Sutton

One of the best parts of the holidays is the aromas and flavors of the season, from walnuts and cinnamon to nutmeg and peppermint. This year for dessert you can give your traditional holiday bake a refreshing twist sure to spread all kinds of holiday cheer with this Peppermint Pie topped with homemade whipped cream. And for a snack while watching your favorite holiday movie, try this recipe for White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark.

Peppermint Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 envelope unflavored gelatin

1/4 cup cold water

2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided

8 ounces soft peppermint candy

1 chocolate cookie crust

crushed peppermint candies, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Soften gelatin in water; set aside. In small saucepan over low heat, cook 1/2 cup whipping cream with candy until candy melts. Add gelatin; mix well. Whip remaining whipping cream. Let gelatin mixture cool and fold in whipped cream, reserving 1/2 cup for garnish. Pour into crust. Chill. Before serving, top with reserved whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies.

Homemade Whipped Cream

2 tablespoons granulated or confectioners’ sugar

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract or liqueur

DIRECTIONS:

In chilled glass bowl, add sugar to whipping cream. Using whisk or hand mixer, incorporate sugar into heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken, leaving visible trails. Continue to whip until soft peaks start to form. Fold in vanilla extract or liqueur. Serve immediately or refrigerate and remix 1-2 minutes before serving.

White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark

White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark

YIELD: Makes 1 pound

INGREDIENTS:

5 cups popped popcorn

12 ounces white chocolate baking chips, chopped white chocolate or white candy coating

1 cup crushed hard candy peppermints

DIRECTIONS:

Cover baking pan with foil or wax paper; set aside. Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside. In double boiler over barely simmering water, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth, or melt according to package directions. Stir in crushed peppermints after chocolate is melted. Pour chocolate mixture over popcorn mixture and stir to coat. Spread onto prepared pan; cool completely. When chocolate is cooled and set, break into chunks for serving. Store in airtight container at room temperature.

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#2 Zaida Gonzalez during last Sunday's game. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook women’s basketball team got an 18-point performance from the bench and held a 44-44 tie with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, but ultimately fell 67-54 to the Minnesota Golden Gophers on the road Nov. 26. 

The Seawolves had three players score in double figures, led by Victoria Keenan, who had 16 points and two steals. Gigi Gonzalez added 13 points and Sherese Pittman chipped in as well with 10 points and nine rebounds. Pittman pulled down two offensive rebounds, leading an offense that racked up second-chance opportunities for Stony Brook, grabbing 11 boards and turning them into 10 second-chance points.

The Stony Brook defense limited Minnesota shooters to just 39.7 percent from the field. Stony Brook also held Mara Braun to 4-of-14 shooting in the game.

After falling behind 18-11, Stony Brook went on a 5-0 run with 45 seconds left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Shamarla King, to narrow its deficit to 18-16. Minnesota answered back and added to its lead, leaving the squad down 20-16 entering the second quarter.

Minnesota kept adding to that lead, building a 35-26 advantage before Stony Brook went on another 5-0 run, highlighted by a three from Gonzalez, to narrow its deficit to 35-31. Minnesota responded and expanded its lead by capturing another bucket before the half, leaving the Seawolves trailing 37-31 heading into halftime.

The Golden Gophers continued to increase its lead after halftime, building a 44-37 advantage before Stony Brook went on a 7-0 run, punctuated by a three from Kelis Corley, to tie things up at 44 with 5:00 to go in the third. The squad knocked down two three-pointers in the quarter to score six of its 13 total points.

Minnesota kept widening its lead in the fourth, constructing a 62-44 advantage before Stony Brook went on a 5-0 run, finished off by Keenan’s three, to shrink the deficit to 62-49 with 2:39 to go in the contest. The Seawolves were unable to cut further into the deficit by the end of the game, losing 67-54. Stony Brook fired away from deep in the quarter, knocking down two shots to account for six of its 10 points.

“Today was a challenge that we needed,” head coach Ashley Langford said. “We will learn from this experience and get better.”

Next up, the team returns home for a three game stretch that begins on Dec. 2 with a matchup against Buffalo at 1 p.m.

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#83 Anthony Johnson Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

Stony Brook football redshirt freshman Anthony Johnson has received his second national award in as many weeks, as the wide receiver was named FCS Football Central Freshman All-American as published by The Bluebloods on Nov. 27.

Johnson adds to his postseason awards collection, which also includes a finalist selection for the Jerry Rice Award and Third Team All-CAA distinction.

He becomes the first player in school history to be selected as All-American by FCS Football Central and Stony Brook’s first wide receiver All-American since Kevin Norrell took the honor from three different outlets in 2012.

The Burlington, N.J. native found himself atop the freshman receiving charts with 714 yards (71.4/game) and 59 receptions (5.9/game), good for the top receiver in the FCS in both categories. He is also the Division I leader in receiving yards per game when combined with FBS receivers. Johnson averaged 12.1 yards per catch and scored three touchdowns this season.

After transferring from James Madison as a redshirt, he finished tied for sixth in Stony Brook single-season history in receptions, while recording at least five receptions in seven games, which had not been done by a Stony Brook receiver in eight years.

Johnson was named All-American on Monday among 49 players from 43 schools. He is one of 22 offensive players and one of five wide receivers to be selected as an All-American.

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Town of Brookhaven will light their holiday tree at the Holtsville Ecology Site on Dec. 1. Photo by Erin Hoeler TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

While a few villages and towns lit their holiday trees 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 inaugural Dickens Festival on the lawn of Capital One Bank, 2100 Middle Country Road, Centereach on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. Enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, candy canes and a visit from Santa. Rain/snow date is Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. 

— Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, 178 Oxhead Road, Centereach presents Light the Night, a tree lighting and live nativity in memory of Matt Lewis on Dec. 9 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. 631-774-1556

Cold Spring Harbor

The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will host a tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 2 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.

Commack

Greenland Landscape and Nursery, 292 Town Line Road, Commack will hold its 8th annual Community Tree Lighting on Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. Santa Claus will be making a special appearance and hot cocoa will be served to warm up the evening. 631-368-7182

Coram

Coram Engine Company 2, corner of Route 112 and Pine Road, Coram will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 1 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 2nd annual Community Tree Lighting event on Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. Free family activities starting at 3 p.m. include ice skating, live nativity, storytime with Santa, indoor snowball fights and much more. Visit islandchristian.com/christmas for more info and to register. 631-822-3000

Farmingville

Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Farmingville Residents Association hosts a tree lighting at Triangle Park at the Town Clock, corner of Horseblock Road and Woodycrest Drive on Dec. 10 at 5 p.m.  (event starts at 3 p.m.) with a visit from Santa and music by the Helping Hands Ministry children’s choir.  Refreshments at the Farmingville Fire Department will follow. 631-260-7411

Greenlawn

The Greenlawn Civic Association hosts its 31st annual “Meet at the Tree” Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 2 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, dance performances, a Christmas carol sing-along plus a special visit from Santa and 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. 1 at 6 p.m. with costumed characters, musical entertainment, 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

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. 3 at 4 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. 3 for their annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Enjoy live entertainment by the Cherokee Street and Nokomis Elementary School Choirs and a visit from Santa. 631-963-2796

Miller Place

The 15th annual Tree Lighting and Polar Express will be held at the Aliano Shopping Center, 691 Route 25A, Miller Place on Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. Enjoy performance from the Dance Pointe Performing Arts Center, as well as Miller Place students, and a visit from Santa Claus before the tree lighting. Free coffee, hot chocolate, soup, pizza, and donuts will be served.

Mount Sinai

Join the North Shore Youth Council and the Mount Sinai Fire Department for their 16th annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Listen to festive caroling by the Sing 4 Music choir, warm up with hot chocolate  with marshmallows and fresh baked cookies by Mojo’s Treats and take photos with Santa. 631-403-4846

Nesconset

The Nesconset Chamber of Commerce will hold a Holiday Lighting at the Nesconset Gazebo on Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset on Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. with music, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. 631-724-2543

Port Jefferson

St. Charles Hospital, Port Jefferson invites the community to its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Dec 6 in the Atrium/Lobby starting at 4:45 p.m. with caroling, hot cocoa, and cookies.

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. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. with refreshments and a visit from Santa. 631-821-1313

Rocky Point

The 39th annual Rocky Point Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 2 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

St. James

The St. James Chamber of Commerce invites the community to a Christmas Tree Lighting celebration at Deepwells Farm County Park, 2 Taylor Lane, St. James on Dec. 9 at 4 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 a Holiday Lighting at Wardenclyffe event on Dec. 2 from 3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy music, festive exhibits and activities for all ages with a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Register for your free tickets at www.teslasciencecenter.org. 631-886-2632

Smithtown

Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown will light their holiday tree on Dec. 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with refreshments 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. 3 at 5:30 p.m. as part of the WMHO’s 43rd annual Holiday Festival. 631-751-2244.

Wading River

The Shoppes at East Wind in Wading River will host its 7th annual Tree Lighting on Saturday Dec. 2. The festivities start at 4 p.m. and last until 8 p.m., where all can 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. Rain date is Dec. 3. 631-929-3500

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Create Farmhouse Holiday Ornaments at Benner's farm on Dec. 2.

PROGRAMS

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will host a First Steps into Nature program titled Scales & Tails: Turtles, Snakes, Lizards, Chameleons on Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22 at 9:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 4 will learn about nature through hands on activities, music, crafts, stories and gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $75 for all 4 classes, $20 per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344 

Pancake Breakfast with Santa

Magic Circle Nursery School at Union United Methodist Church, 1018 Pulaski Road, East Northport will hold its 42nd annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 2 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Come bring the whole family for a real holiday treat filled with food and fun. Remember your camera for the perfect holiday photo with Santa. Donation is $8 adults, $4 children. 631-754-5565.

Tender Years Treasury

The Town of Smithtown Recreation & Senior Citizens Departments will host the annual Tender Years Treasury, holiday shopping experience for children at the Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center, 420 Middle Country Road, Smithtown on Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The popular event allows kids in grades K through 5 to independently shop for family gifts, all handmade by local seniors, modestly priced at $5 and under with a cookie decorating station, holiday crafts, and free gift wrapping. 631-360-7644.

Santa on the Farm

Santa Claus is coming back by to Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville by popular demand. Meet the jolly fellow in the heated Woodland Hall on Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, and 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as Long Island Game Farm transforms into a holiday wonderland. Feed deer in the park, meet Santa Claus, bring your camera to take treasured family photos, enjoy a craft table, and explore the holiday gift boutique — all included in the admission fee. 631-878-6644

Farmhouse Holiday Ornaments

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket will hold a kids workshop, Farmhouse Style Holiday Ornaments, for ages 4 to 10 on Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.. Come spend time on a real working farm making crafts for your holidays. Each child will create and take home several different of their own ornaments, make a snow globe, and take a farm tour at the workshop. $55 per child. To register, call 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Santa Comes to Longwood

Santa heads to the historic Longwood Estate, corner of Longwood Road and Smith Road, Ridge on Dec. 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., courtesy of the Town of Brookhaven. Explore the grounds of the estate on a old fashioned sleigh ride and enjoy roasted chestnuts and popcorn on an open fire. Children can visit with Santa and have family members take photos. Rain date is Dec. 3. $5 per child ages 12 and under. Advance registration required by calling 631-924-1820.

Family Hour Sunday

Enjoy a special Family Hour Sunday at the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington in both Spanish and English! on Dec. 3 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 5 through 10 are invited for a family-friendly art experience with educators Tami Wood and Karina Giménez. Explore works of art in the Museum and create fun art projects! $10 per child, adults free. Register at www.heckscher.org. 631-380-3230

A Visit with Mailman Mark 

The Miller Place Mount Sinai Historical Society will host their annual Mailman Mark event Dec. 3 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Children are invited to bring their pre-written letters for Santa to the old Miller Place Post Office at 75 North Country Road, Miller Place where Mailman Mark will bundle the letters for the North Pole! Each child will receive a letter from Santa delivered to their home. Tickets are $12 each. 63-476-5742, mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

Menorah Workshop

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for a Menorah Workshop on Dec. 3 at 1 p.m. Explore the importance of oil through the ages, from whale oil to olive oil! Compare historic oil lanterns in the museum’s collection, and get creative designing a tiled mosaic menorah to light up your home this holiday! $16 per child. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Pinecone Pals

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a family program, Pinecone Pals, on Dec. 3 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Winter is a great time to collect pine cones. Create fun pine cone animal crafts to take home! $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Seashell Ornaments Workshop

Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Seashell Ornaments Workshop on Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. From clams to sea snails to nautilus squid, explore the wonderful world of shelled animals in this educator-led workshop. Find out how to identify shells local to Long Island, and decorate a special shell ornament to hang up at home during this festive time of year. $16 per child. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Dec. 4 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

Penguins!

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots program on Dec. 7 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Learn all about penguins through story time, animal visitors, and crafts. For children ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

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. 

‘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.

‘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 Ebenezer Pierpot and his 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.

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. 30, Dec, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22; and at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on 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.

‘Princess Mononoke’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of the animated classic Princess Monoke on Dec. 3 at noon. Inflicted with a deadly curse, the young warrior Ashitaka heads west in search of a cure and  stumbles into a bitter conflict between Lady Eboshi, the proud people of Iron Town, and the enigmatic Princess Mononoke. Rated G. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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Buddy
Buddy
Buddy

This week’s featured shelter pet is Buddy, a 12-year-old tri-colored male Beagle mix up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Buddy is a sweet senior dog that deserves the BEST forever home to show him the love that he has been denied. This sweet boy was adopted and returned twice in his life. He is gentle, outgoing, loves all people and animals and is pretty low key.  He will bark for attention and love. He will follow you around and be under foot, that is, when he isn’t snuggled in a ball fast asleep.  He will need a home that can manage his chronic ear issues and his tendency to wander off. He is a delightful old man that just wants LOVE!

If you would like to meet Buddy, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting.

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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