Culinary Historian Sarah Lohman returns to the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on Sunday, November 12 at noon to talk about endangered American food traditions featured in her latest book, Endangered Eating: America’s Vanishing Foods. Lohman has traveled the country learning about and documenting ingredients at risk of being lost to time, from those who are passionate about keeping those traditions alive.
After her talk, join Sarah in the LIM Visitors Center for an Author Meet & Greet and Book Signing! Copies of the book will be available to purchase on the day of the event.
The event is free with Museum admission. No registration required.
For more information, visit www.longislandmuseum.org.
To celebrate the start of the Christmas season, Gerald Dickens, the great-great Grandson of author Charles Dickens, will perform a live one-man adaptation of Charles Dickens’ unforgettable holiday tale, “A Christmas Carol.” The show will be performed live at Huntington’s Cinema Arts Centre on Saturday, December 2nd at 7 p.m. Using his own adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale, Gerald plays over 30 characters using vocal and physical talents to bring each scene vividly to life.
Gerald Dickens’ breathtaking one-man performance of his great-great grandfather’s epic Christmas tale is a theatrical tour de force. Gerald Dickens delivers an extraordinary performance in his one-man play of the classic Christmas story, depicting all of the individual characters with clarity and a mesmerizing energy. He is able to communicate the fear and angst of Scrooge, while offering us a poignant glimpse into the Cratchit family’s life. And, of course, Gerald infuses bits of laughter throughout the play.
Gerald Dickens is an actor, director and producer and the great-great grandson of the author Charles Dickens. In 1993 he created his first one-man show, a theatrical performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ inspired by Charles Dickens’ own energetic readings of the 1860s.
A Christmas Carol: Dickens’s most famous ghost story was an instant success upon its release in 1843. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly man who hates Christmas. Scrooge started a business with Jacob Marley, who was very similar to Scrooge prior to his death, but after Marley’s passing, Scrooge has run the business on his own. One night Scrooge is visited by the ghost of Jacob Marley, who warns Scrooge about the fate that awaits him if he does not become a better person. Marley tells Scrooge that in the coming nights he will be visited by three more ghosts. Initially Scrooge fails to take the warning seriously but as the ghostly visits become more terrifying, Scrooge begins to realize that he must change his ways, eventually learning the importance of charity and friendship.
Copies of Gerald Dickens’ critically acclaimed new book, Dickens and Staplehurst: A Biography of a Rail Crash, will also be available at this event.
Additional Event Information:
Date:
Saturday, December 2nd at 7:00 PM
Location:
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave, Huntington, NY 11743
Fees:
Performance and Book:
$45 Public | $40 Cinema Arts Centre Members
Performance Only:
$30 Public | $25 Cinema Arts Centre Members
You may have heard about older adults being tricked into sending money to someone they think is a grandchild or other relative in trouble and thought to yourself, “How could anyone fall for that?” But the truth is, today’s advanced technology makes it easier than ever for scammers to trick their unsuspecting and well-meaning victims.
To protect yourself, it pays to understand how fraudsters work, what red flags to look for, and how to trust your instincts so you don’t end up on the losing end of one of these vicious scams.
How grandparent scams work
Scammers prey on kind-hearted victims by convincing people their grandchild or other relative has had an accident or is in some kind of legal or financial trouble. The scammers then plead for money to get them out of the “jam.”
For years, criminals have been able to gather facts and personal information from people’s social media accounts to contact their older relatives. Once the criminals contact older relatives via text, email or phone, the criminals can sound very convincingly like a relative in dire trouble.
The A.I. twist
Because of advances in artificial intelligence (A.I.), criminals can now make their pleas for cash sound even more convincing when calling on the phone. According to the Federal Trade Commission, these scammers use A.I. voice cloning software to mimic your relative’s voice by pulling the audio from their social media videos.
Unfortunately, scammers often couple this tactic with a “spoofed” phone number that shows up on your caller ID with your relative’s name, so it looks like it’s really them calling you.
How to spot red flags
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent criminals from stealing from you. The United States Postal Inspection Service® recommends a few simple steps to avoid being taken by this extremely vicious scam:
* Late-night calls. Scammers often call victims in the middle of the night, hoping to catch you when you’re not fully awake and less likely to think clearly. If that happens to you, tell them you’ll call them right back. You can then take the time to fully wake up, gather your wits and contact your grandchild or relative via the method you usually use to talk to them. Do not return the call you just received.
* Urgent pleas for money. Be suspicious of any phone calls including requests for money, even if it sounds like someone you know. Scammers use fear to get you worried about your loved one, so you won’t take the time to think things through. If someone asks for money right away, hang up. Contact your loved one the way you usually contact them, and/or check with other trusted family members first.
* Requests for odd methods of payment. If you’re asked to send money using methods like a mobile payment app, mailing cash, wiring money, sending gift cards or money orders, or other unusual payment methods, hang up. Once money is sent using these methods, there’s no way to get it back. If you are asked to meet somewhere so you can give them cash in person, hang up and report the incident to law enforcement.
If you’ve been affected by crime that involves the U.S. Mail®, contact the United States Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or report it online at USPIS.gov/report. If you think you’ve been targeted by a grandparent scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at 888-225-5322, or visit ConsumerComplaints.FCC.gov.
The St. James Model Railroad Club will hold a holiday open house from Nov. 17 to 19 this year.
The St. James Model Railroad Club, after a 3 year Covid public shutdown, is once again opening to the public. The club will be holding its Annual Holiday Open House on Friday, November 17th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, November 18th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and on Sunday November 19th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mills Pond House, 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James.
This 38′ X 48′ Lionel train layout, the result of 40 years of continuing improvements, represents Railroading from the Age of Steam to Present Day with many freight and passenger trains running simultaneously in a scenic, imaginative setting.
If you can only get to see one train exhibit this holiday season, THIS IS THE ONE TO SEE!! Featured are many new additions to the Layout including a New City scene with operating roadway, a Freight yard upgrade and a new power plant & fire scene. The improved layout guarantees that you will see MANY TRAINS presented in a DETAILED, REALISTIC SETTING. Children of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of this truly impressive holiday event.
Requested donations are: Adults $2.00 Children 50¢.
Please note: The St. James Model Railroad club is not handicap accessible.
This Exhibit is Made Possible by the Town of Smithtown & STAC.
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies for three Stony Brook Village Center establishments — D.K. Brothers by Madison’s Niche,Michael Macrina Architect and Village Hair Studio — on Oct. 24.
Ribbon cutting for D.K. Brothers
D.K. Brothers by Madison’s Niche is a boutique offering a curated collection of men’s apparel, lifestyle gifts, and luxury pet accessories by the owners of Madison’s Niche in Stony Brook Village Center. Guests can expect to shop popular men’s clothing brands like Tommy Bahama, UGG, Ralph Lauren, Levi’s and many more. Plus, they have a wide selection of products for a man’s best friend with a section of the store dedicated to pet products like special outfits, accessories, toys, bowls, beds, treats, and more.
In 2012, Karen McAvoy established Madison’s Niche, drawing inspiration from and naming it after her daughter, Madison. Her daughter Madison has recently joined the business as Vice President. Alike Madison’s Niche, D.K. Brothers takes its concept and name from Karen’s sons, Daniel and Kenneth.
D.K. Brothers is located at 97K Main Street in Stony Brook Village. They are open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 631-779-6457.
Ribbon cutting for MMA
Michael Macrina Architect (MMA) has moved their office into the heart of Stony Brook Village. MMA was previously located at the corner of 25A and Main Street for the past 11 years. Established in 2006, MMA has been in business for 17 years and handles all permits required for construction and renovation. They offer interior & exterior renovations, residential architecture, exterior facelifts, new additions, new homes and more. To learn more about Michael Macrina Architect, call 631-686-6585 or visit www.mmarchitectaia.com.
Ribbon cutting for Village Hair Studio. Photo from WMHO
Village Hair Studio is a hair salon designed to create a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere for any client. They are currently offering haircuts, hair coloring, hair smoothing treatments, make-up services and bridal services. In addition, they offer massages and facials to enhance the beauty and relaxation experience. The salon will soon provide special hair and makeup services for those experiencing hair loss from diseases like alopecia or cancer.
The Village Hair Studio is located at 97D Main Street in Stony Brook Village. They are open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To make an appointment call 631-675-0987 or visit https://www.villagehairstudiony.com/.
The ribbon cuttings were attended by Michael Ardolino, Assistant Secretary, Three Village Chamber of Commerce (3VC); Carmine Inserra, Vice President, 3VC; Ed Flood, NYS Assemblyman; Robert Fonti, representing Suffolk County Executive, Steve Bellone; Madison McAvoy, Vice President of Madison’s Niche; Karen McAvoy, Proprietor of Madison’s Niche and D.K. Brothers; Ed Romaine, Town of Brookhaven Supervisor; Gloria Rocchio, President, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO); Dr. Richard Rugen, Chairman, WMHO; Jonathan Kornreich, Councilman, Town of Brookhaven; Alexander Piccirillo, representing Senator Anthony Palumbo; Martha Stansbury, Treasurer, 3VC; Ken Kroncke, Board Member, 3VC; Mary Van Tuyl, Trustee, WMHO; Charles Napoli, Trustee, WMHO; Emily McAvoy; Daniel McAvoy; Kenneth McAvoy; Kenneth McAvoy Jr.; Chuck Lohmann, Trustee, WMHO; Daniel J. Panico, Deputy Supervisor and Councilman, Town of Brookhaven; Charlie Lefkowitz, President, 3VC; Collette Frey-Bitzas, 2nd Vice President, 3VC; and Thomas McLaughlin, representing Senator Mario Mattera.
Many years ago, as a young journalist, I often heard that Beaujolais was intended to be drunk while still very young, and if over a year old, lost its appeal and charm and is best forgotten. Older journalists jokingly referred to Beaujolais Nouveau as ‘Old Veau’ once it surpassed a year of aging.
Having explored the Beaujolais wine region in France and sampled numerous “older” vintages, I can confirm that the earlier advice was inaccurate. Interestingly, some Beaujolais wines can still be enjoyed after ten years of aging. During a visit to Beaujolais, I had the chance to taste some truly spectacular wines that were approaching 15 years old.
Beaujolais wine is made from the Gamay grape, known for its light-bodied fruity character and flavors of berries (raspberry and strawberry), red cherries, candy-apples, watermelon, and others.
Yet, when the Gamay grape is grown in the northern topography on hillside properties, the wines become riper, fuller-bodied, and more complex. These wines are often aged in wooden barrels for several years, losing much of their grapey character.
Beaujolais wine is grouped into three levels depending on quantity, quality, and price. Beaujolais (also Beaujolais Nouveau), Beaujolais-Villages, and Beaujolais Cru. Beaujolais-Villages is sourced from 38 villages in the north, known for its superior quality and subsequent higher price. The crus of Beaujolais, originating from 10 specific northern villages, are intended for aging and are of the highest quality.
Pixabay photo
My Beaujolais tasting notes are:
2019 Georges Duboeuf “Beaujolais Nouveau.” It lost some of its intense fruit because of age. Bright ruby color with a light and fruity aroma and flavor of red candy, raspberries, and cranberry, with a tart-berry aftertaste.
2021 Domaine Romy “Les Pierres Dorées” (Territory of Golden stones) Beaujolais. Cherry color with a fruity aroma and flavor of raspberries, spicy cherries, tart berries, and red currants. There are hints of black pepper and plums in the aftertaste.
2019 Prunelle de Navacelle “Beaujolais Lantignié” (Beaujolais-Villages). (Aged 12 months in oak). Floral bouquet and taste of spicy black fruits, herbs, jam, and mushrooms. Nice amount of acidity with hints of strawberries, earth, leather, and hibiscus.
2019 Stephane Aviron Moulin-à-Vent “Vieilles Vignes” Beaujolais. Ruby-colored with an impressive bouquet and taste of black cherry, boysenberry, black currants, and bittersweet chocolate. Medium-bodied with hints of wild strawberry, spices, black pepper.
2018 Louis Latour “Beaujolais-Villages.” Medium-deep color with a fruity bouquet and taste of cranberry, raspberry, and black cherry. Additional flavors of almonds, plums, and jam are balanced by crisp acidity.
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]
Ready or not, here it comes. The end of daylight saving time (DST) is fast approaching, perhaps for the final time if legislators vote to permanently end switching clocks an hour backward in the coming months. The seasonal time change will occur on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2 a.m. and along with it, an extra hour of sleep. DST returns on March 10, 2024.
Pictured from left, are Stretch Zone staff members Julia Roberts, Joy Strohmayer, Courtney Cosentino; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Stretch Zone owner Elizabeth Valencia; Mt. Sinai/Miller Place Chamber Alliance President Holly Bottiglieri; and Stretch Zone staff members Sabrina Perrino and Carla Stucklen. Photo from Town of Brookhaven
On Oct. 12, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner and Mt. Sinai/Miller Place Chamber Alliance President Holly Bottiglieri attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the first Stretch Zone in Suffolk County at 385 Route 25A in Miller Place to wish Stretch Zone owner, Elizabeth Valencia the best of luck in her new venture.
Established in 2004, Stretch Zone has made significant contributions to the field of stretching with its unique tables and patented strapping system, aimed at providing lasting benefits to its users. The company’s goal is to improve mobility and overall well-being.
Stretch Zone offers services to a diverse group of individuals, including athletes, stroke survivors, hip or knee replacement patients, office workers, and people with conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. With the new Miller Place branch, Stretch Zone now has 300 locations in 40 states.
For more information, call 631-743-9719 or go to their website at www.stretchzone.com.
The Stony Brook University men’s soccer team played to a scoreless draw against William & Mary in the regular-season finale in Williamsburg, VA on Oct. 27. Edmond Kaiser made eight saves, keeping the Tribe off the scoreboard and helping the Seawolves secure a much-needed point to close the regular season.
The story of the match was undoubtedly Kaiser’s play in net. The graduate keeper from Germany stood on his head, turning away tries from the Tribe time after time. Three of his eight saves on the evening came during the first half, with two of the three being turned away in the opening 25 minutes of play.
After a scoreless first half of action that saw the Seawolves muster just two shots on goal, the Tribe turned it on. William & Mary kept the pressure in the offensive third, but never could get one past Kaiser. The Stony Brook keeper was right back into action early in the second half, stopping a near-side try from a charging William & Mary attacker. Perhaps his best save of the night came on a scramble in the box that led to a right-footed rocket of a shot that Kaiser got a hand on. Not only did William & Mary have no luck in beating Kaiser directly, they also saw a pair of shots clang off the post and crossbar in the second half. When all was said and done, the Seawolves would walk away with a point in a road showdown in Virginia.
STATS AND NOTES
Kaiser’s eight saves are his most since stopping nine at Hofstra in September. His eight stops in goal helped him notch his fourth shutout of the season.
The Seawolves were outshot 19-6 in the contest and 12-1 in the second half.
With the point, Stony Brook moves into sole possession of first place in the CAA heading into the final day of the regular season. The Seawolves entered play in a three-way tie with Hofstra and Monmouth, with the Pride and Hawks each owning the tiebreaker over the Seawolves for the first and second spots in the table.
Stony Brook is guaranteed a top-three finish in the CAA, regardless of tomorrow’s results around the league. The top-three finish is the program’s best since winning the 2018 America East Regular Season Championship and earning the No. 1 seed.
The Stony Brook University women’s cross country team placed second overall at the 2023 CAA Championship at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville, VA on Oct. 27. Four Seawolves (Grace Weigele, Fiona McLoughlin, Grace Sisson and Rebecca Clackett) placed inside the top-15, earning All-CAA distinction. Weigele paced the Seawolves individually, finishing second overall, four seconds behind the individual winner. Weigele covered the 6K course in 21:07.50, securing valuable points for Stony Brook. McLoughlin followed closely behind, crossing in fifth, needing 21:17.60 to complete the championship event.
Sisson (21:49.80) and Clackett (21:50.40) finished 14th and 15th respectively, rounding out Stony Brook’s All-CAA performers at the CAA Championship. Nicole Garcia notched a top-20 finish for the Seawolves, completing the course in 21:58.40 to slot in at 19th place. Niamh Durcan (31st), Amelie Guzman (37th) and Julia Samuelson (84th) rounded out the Seawolves’ runners.
FINAL WOMEN’S SCORES
Elon, 36 points
Stony Brook, 55 points
Northeastern, 78 points
William & Mary, 98 points
Monmouth, 112 points
Charleston, 164 points
Delaware, 203 points
Hofstra, 288 points
UNC Wilmington, 296 points
Towson, 310 points
Campbell, 319 points
North Carolina A&T, 328 points
Hampton, 348 points
QUOTES FROM THE SEAWOLVES “This without a doubt was the best women’s team performance in a number of years,” head coach Andy Ronancommented. “The ladies were brilliant in how they went about competing today. We knew they had this type of performance in them, and excited that they pulled it out today.”
“Today was an important race where everyone on the team stepped up and competed for each other,” Weigele noted post meet. “It was a tactical race, so a large part of it was about patience and trusting ourselves. I’m proud of how we were able to compete as a team today and set a great tone for regionals.”
NEXT UP The team returns to competition on Friday, November 10 for the NCAA Regional Championships at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx.
Gerald Dickens’ breathtaking one-man performance of his great-great grandfather’s epic Christmas tale is a theatrical tour de force. Gerald Dickens delivers an extraordinary performance in his one-man play of the classic Christmas story, depicting all of the individual characters with clarity and a mesmerizing energy. He is able to communicate the fear and angst of Scrooge, while offering us a poignant glimpse into the Cratchit family’s life. And, of course, Gerald infuses bits of laughter throughout the play.
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