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Cinema Art Centre will host Story Time on Nov. 20.
PROGRAMS

Star Quest!

Calling brave explorers! Through the month of November (except Nov. 24) the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents Star Quest! Thursday to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hunt for star constellations around the museum with a spyglass to navigate your journey, just like mariners at sea. Solve puzzles to find your reward — a glittery star lantern you can decorate in the museum’s workshop to light your way home. For ages 5 and up. Cost is admission fee plus $10 per participant. Questions? Call 367-3418 or visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Thanksgiving Gnome Workshop

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 6 and 9, St. James will present a Thanksgiving Gnome Workshop for ages 5 to 12 on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 10 am. to noon. Join Miss Linda in some Thanksgiving fun as she teaches you how to paint this cute thankful gnome. $50 per child includes all materials. To register, visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org or call 631-250-9009.

Family Hour Sunday

The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington presents Family Hour Sunday on Nov. 20 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 5 through 10 are invited for a family-friendly art experience with Museum Educator Tami Wood. Explore works of art in the Museum and create fun art projects! $10 per child, adults free. Limited to one adult per family group. Advance registration recommended by visiting www.heckscher.org. 

Story Time at the CAC

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 park Ave., Huntington invites children age 3 to 7 to Story Time with author Netanya Lewis on Nov. 20 at noon. Lewis will read her book, “I Am a Princess … I Am a Prince …”, which helps children discover the importance of different ethnicities and abilities in friendships. And in the process, they will learn to unleash their inner greatness. Adults are encouraged to come and participate. $5 children, $12 adults. Registration is required by visiting www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Thankful for the Animal Kingdom – just added!

Join the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a program titled We Are Thankful for the Animal Kingdom on Nov. 22 from 4 to 5 p.m. Meet birds, fishes, reptiles, amphibians and mammals; read a story; and make a craft. Activities are free with admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. No reservations required. Questions/ Call 516-692-6768.

Film

‘Polar Express’

The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce presents a screening of the holiday film Polar Express at the Chamber Train Car, corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway in Port Jefferson Station on Fridays, Nov. 18, Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 6 to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Nov. 19, Dec. 10 and 17 from noon to 2 p.m., 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 4 and 11 from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.  Cost is $20 per person and includes popcorn, a cookie and hot cocoa.  To reserve your ticket, visit www.PJSTChamber.com.

THEATER

‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown kicks off the holiday season with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. from Nov. 19 to Jan. 22 with a special sensory performance on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents the holiday musical Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 19 to Dec. 30 with a sensory sensitive performance on Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As our littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. Tickets are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Frosty’

A perennial favorite, Frosty returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. from Nov. 26 to Dec. 24 and daily from Dec. 26 to 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 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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Postman Pete stamps a letter to Santa. Photo by Bob Savage

A Visit with Postman Pete

The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society presents A Visit with Postman Pete on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 12:30 to 3:30 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 where Postman Pete will bundle the letters for the North Pole! Then  visit a vintage fire truck and enjoy crafts, story time, raffles and refreshments inside the William Miller House (c. 1720). $12 per child. Pre-registration is required by visiting PostmanPete2022.eventbrite.com by Nov. 30. For additional information, please contact the Society at 631-476-5742.

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‘Violinist to the stars’ Caroline Campbell heads to the Staller Center on Nov. 19.
Thursday Nov. 17

Dreamcatcher Workshop 

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St. Cold Spring Harbor invites adults and teens to a Dreamcatcher Workshop from 6 to 7 p.m. Discover the history behind the most enduring and widespread symbol of Native American culture, the dreamcatcher, with special guest and member of the Shinnecock and Hassanamisco Nations, Denise Silva-Dennis. Learn the meaning and significance behind these beautiful artworks and create a traditional dreamcatcher of your own. $16 participant; $8 members. Visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org to reserve your spot.

Friday Nov. 18

Library Holiday Craft Fair

Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn presents its 11th annual Friends Holiday Craft Fair today and Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for handcrafted gift items featuring the Starz on Broadway Crafters in the Library meeting rooms and art gallery hallway. Questions? Call 757-4200.

Winter Lantern Festival

The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown celebrates the holiday season with Suffolk County’s FIRST immersive Winter Lantern Festival tonight, Nov. 19 and 20 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 8, 2023. The walk-through holiday light show will feature lanterns and displays in the shape of flowers, mushrooms, farm animals, dinosaurs and many more, all handmade by artisans with decades of dedication to their craft. Be ready for photo ops with friends and family, as this will be an unforgettable experience! Tickets are $22 per person, $12 ages 3 to 12. To order, visit https://www.showclix.com/tickets/suffolk-winter-lantern-festival. For more information, call 265-6768.

Owl Prowl at the Vanderbilt

Biologist and ranger Eric Powers, co-founder of the Center for Environmental Education & Discovery (CEED), will lead an Owl Prowl on the grounds of the Vanderbilt Estate and Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport at 6 p.m. After a presentation on the owls of Long Island, Powers will lead a walk on the estate grounds, during which he will attempt to call in nearby owls. Flashlights are not permitted. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the trail is uneven and it will be dark. Tickets are $12, members free. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Third Friday at the Reboli

Join the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for a Third Friday event with author and arborist, John Duvall who will enlighten listeners to some interesting, historic facts about the history of the tradition of the Christmas tree from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Duvall will also share with listeners tips and tricks on how to make your traditions more sustainable this year. Followed by a book signing and Q&A. Refreshments will be served. Free and open to all. Call 751-7707. 

Northport Symphony concert

The Northport Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Richard Hyman, will present a concert of classical music at Northport High School, 154 Laurel Road, Northport at 8 p.m.  The concert will feature Symphony No. 8 by Antonin Dvorak, and Overture in D by Franz Schubert and the Tragic Overture by Johannes Brahms. Ticket price is $10. Visit www.northportsymphony.org for more information.

Saturday Nov. 19

Library Holiday Craft Fair

See Nov. 18 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Nov. 18 listing.

Foraging with the ‘Wildman’

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Foraging with the “Wildman” from 9 a.m. to noon. Join environmental educator Steve Brill for a talk in the planetarium theater followed by a foraging tour on the estate grounds. Participants should bring plastic bags for veggies & herbs, and a paper bag  for early-season mushrooms plus a small hand tool. Everyone should wear closed shoes. $10 per person, children under age 10 free. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Turkey Trot Run / Walk 5k

Join the North Shore Youth Council and CrossFit 631 Red Woods for a Turkey Trot Run/Walk 5k at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai at 10 a.m. $10 per person plus a canned food item to help them fill 100 Thanksgiving baskets for families in need. Register at www.eventbrite.com.

Holiday Pottery Sale – just added!

The Brick Clay Studio & Gallery, 2 Flowerfield, St. James hosts a Holiday Pottery Sale from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Besides one of a kind hand-made pottery by members,  there will be raffles, live music and light refreshments.  The Gallery Shop will also be open this holiday season to browse and purchase unique handmade pottery made on the premises.  Visit  www.thebrickstudio.org or call 833-THE-BRICK.

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. The fair will feature jewelry, housewares, toys, a silent auction of themed gift baskets, arts & crafts for kids, electronics, tools, sporting goods, computer equipment, CDs, DVDs, garden tools, live holiday music, luncheon cafe and a book signing with Raising Betty author Sarah Zagaja and Fenway the therapy dog!  Santa Claus will be there all day to pose for photos at no charge. Call 261-5222.

School Craft Fair

Walt Whitman High School, 301 West Hills Road, Huntington Station hosts its 21st 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. Call 549-8582

Holly Jolly Holiday Party

St. George Living History Productions in conjunction with the Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum will present the Holly Jolly Holiday Party, at RJO Intermediate School, 99 Old Dock Road Kings Park at 11 a.m. The two hour extravaganza will feature a multifaceted celebration of holiday television specials of the past and the festive spirit of the present, Q&A session, and luncheon. For tickets, visit www.stgeorgelivinghistory.com.

Polar Bear Plunge

Town of Brookhaven will host the 13th annual Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach, Harbor 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.

Avalon Astronomy event – just added!

Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook invites the community to join them for an astronomy event at the Sky Lab in the Avalon Barn on Shep Jones Lane from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Led by David Cohn and David Barnett, they will be presenting a live observing session (weather permitting) focusing on Jupiter, Saturn, and several deep sky objects. No registration required. Free. Call 689-0619 for more information.

An evening of comedy

Temple Isaiah Brotherhood, 1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook presents a Comedy Night at 7:45 p.m. Emceed by Maria Walsh, the evening will feature comedians Chris Monty, Chris Roach and Rich Walker. Tickets are $50 per person. BYOB and refreshments. For more information, call 751-8518.

Caroline Campbell in concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts welcomes Caroline Campbell in concert in the Recital Hall at 8 p.m. Establishing herself both as a skilled classical artist and a versatile contemporary musician, world renowned violinist Caroline Campbell will share her arrangements of some of her favorite moments from the movies, including West Side Story, Romeo and Juliet, Harry Potter, Titanic, James Bond, The Red Violin, and many more! Tickets range from $39 to $58. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

LI Comedy Festival

Celebrate St. James hosts the Long Island Comedy Festival at the St. James Fire Department, 533 Route 25, St. James at 8 p.m. Comedians include Rob Falcone, Paul Anthony and David Weiss. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are $35. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Engine 1 Community Holiday Toy Drive. To order, visit www.celebratestjames.org.

Sunday Nov. 20

Holiday Pottery Sale

See Nov. 19 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Nov. 18 listing.

Northport Walking Tour

The Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St.. Northport hosts a Parading Down Main Street walking tour at 1:30 p.m. Tour guide Dan Sheehan makes the past come alive during this lively and informative walking tour of Northport’s historic Main Street business district. $7 per person. Register at www.northporthistorical.org or call 757-9859.

Saxophone Quartet concert

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station welcomes the Transitions Saxophone Quartet in concert at 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a musical performance demonstrating the evolution of jazz through the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Open to all. Register by calling 928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

Sound Symphony Orchestra concert

Comsewogue High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a concert by the Sound Symphony Orchestra at 2 p.m. Program will include Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2, Mvts. 1, 3 and 4; Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 13, featuring soloist Luke Baron, piano; and Gipps: Seascape for Double Wind Quintet. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students at the door. Military and children under 12 years old receive free admission Cash only.  For more information, visit www.soundsymphony.org.

Sunday at the Society

The Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport continues its Sunday at the Society series with an Icon Award Presentation at 2 p.m. Join them as they honor Vincent Terranova and Jones Drug Store, a staple on Main Street in Northport since 1901, with stories and refreshments. Free but registration is required by visiting www.northporthistorical.org.

Monday Nov. 21

No events listed for this day.

Tuesday Nov. 22

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday Nov. 23

No events listed for this day.

Thursday Nov. 24
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 821-8116 or visit www.swrschools.org. 

Turkey Trot

The 15th 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 629-4950 visit www.townwidefund.org.

Film

South Asian Film Festival

The Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents the first-ever Long Island South Asian Film Festival on Nov. 19. Featuring 13 shorts, one short documentary, and one feature film over the span of six hours beginning at noon. For the complete lineup of films and to purchase tickets, please visit www.longislandsaff.com.

‘Man with a Movie Camera’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cult Café series with a screening of the 1929 Ukrainian documentary, Man with a Movie Camera  on Nov. 19 at 9 p.m. Composer Justin Sherburn’s joyful original score celebrates the beauty and resilience of Ukraine’s people and aims to inspire American audiences to support the country in its time of need. Tickets are $12, $7 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘The Youtube Effect’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues on Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. with a screening of The Youtube Effect at Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson. The documentary takes viewers on a timely and gripping journey inside the cloistered world of YouTube and parent Google. It investigates YouTube’s rise from humble beginnings in the attic of a pizzeria to its explosion onto the world stage, becoming the largest media platform in history and sparking a cultural revolution, while creating massive controversy in the age of disinformation. YouTubers, reporters, and experts alike join Winter in interrogating the effects these problems can have. Guest Speaker via live Zoom will be Alex Winter, Director. Tickets are $10 at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door. 

Theater

‘Sister Act’

Stage 74 @SYJCC, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack presents Sister Act on Nov. 12 and 19 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. Based on the hit 1992 film, the show follows disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, who witnesses a murder and is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be a found: a convent! Filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to rejoice! Tickets are $32, $25 seniors and students. To order, call 462-9800 or visit www.starplayhouse.com.

‘Noises Off’

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College presents Noises Off by Michael Frayn at the Shea Theater, Islip Arts Building, 533 College Road, Selden on Nov. 16, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 20 and 27 at 2 p.m. Called the funniest farce ever written, Noises Off presents a manic menagerie of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called Nothing’s On. *Mature Content* General admission: $14, Veterans and students 16 years of age or younger: $10, Suffolk students with current ID: One FREE ticket. To order, visit https://sunysuffolk.edu/spotlight or call 451-4163.

‘A Christmas Carol’

“I will honor Christmas in my heart…” Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for its 38th annual production of A Christmas Carol in all of its thrills, music, joy, and spirit. from Nov. 12 to Dec. 30. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. $20 tickets in November; December tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B11.

‘A Christmas Story’

The John W. Engeman Theater presents A Christmas Story, The Musical from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31. Nine-year-old Ralphie Parker only wants one thing for Christmas ­ an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Rebuffed at every turn, Ralphie plots numerous schemes to achieve his desperate desire for the coveted BB gun. Based on the beloved movie, A Christmas Story, The Musical is the perfect holiday gift for the entire family! Tickets range from $80 to $85. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown kicks off the holiday season with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. from Nov. 19 to Jan. 22 with a special sensory performance on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Vendors Wanted

◆ Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport seeks vendors for its annual St. Nicholas Bazaar on Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 631-261-7670 for further details.

◆ Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook seeks craft vendors for its Holiday Night Market on Dec. 10 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call 631-588-5024.

◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road,  Setauket seeks vendors for its first annual Three Village Winter Market, an outdoor holiday shopping experience,  on Dec. 10 and 11 from 11 to 4 p.m. $100 for one day or $150 for both. Call 631-751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.

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A study of more than 8,000 women from seven countries revealed that at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, stress experienced by pregnant women predicted more frequent anxiety and depressive symptoms. Photo provided by Marci Lobel, Stony Brook University
Published study of more than 8,000 women from seven Western countries reveals mental health risks at onset of pandemic

A study that assessed stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms in pregnant women from seven Western countries during the first major wave of the Covid-19 pandemic (April 17 to May 31, 2020) shows that stress from fears about Covid-19 led to anxiety and depressive symptoms above normal levels. Led by Stony Brook University Professor Marci Lobel, PhD, the findings are part of the International Covid-19 Pregnancy Experiences (I-COPE) Study and are published in Social Science & Medicine.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had unprecedented impact on public health, including mental health, and has affected social and economic conditions of people worldwide. The onset of the pandemic was especially stressful for pregnant women because of the initially unknown effects of the virus on fetuses, and because prenatal care and labor and delivery practices were greatly altered. The I-COPE Study is the first major research project to compare stress and mental health in pregnant women across these Western countries.

The study involved 8,148 pregnant women (on average about 27 weeks pregnant) from the United States, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Poland, Italy and Israel. While the countries varied in magnitude of pandemic-related pregnancy stress – likely because of cultural differences and the specific impacts of the pandemic in each country – anxiety and depressive symptoms among the cohort were strongly predicted by pandemic-related and pregnancy-specific stress – a result the authors found was replicated within the individual countries.

”Our findings show that the stress experienced by pregnant women predicted more frequent anxiety and depressive symptoms, including symptom levels above clinically defined thresholds for poor mental health,” explains Lobel, Director of I-COPE, and a Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University.

Among the seven countries, rates of moderate and severe anxiety symptoms ranged from 14.2 percent to 36 percent, and rates of likely depressive disorder ranged from 10.8 percent to 30.5 percent. Rates of both types of mood disturbance among women in Germany, Poland and the U.S. exceeded global ranges reported by analyses prior to the pandemic. Pregnant women who were younger or pregnant with their first child, those with high risk conditions, and those with limited access to the outdoors reported higher stress, and high stress in turn predicted the mood disturbances examined in this study.

Lobel and colleagues point out that many pre-pandemic studies – including those centered around other traumatic communal events such as the aftermath of natural disasters or terrorist attacks – also find evidence that prenatal stress is a risk factor for adverse maternal, fetal, infant, and child outcomes. Yet comparisons of these effects across multiple countries are rare, and the ability to examine them in the context of a global health crisis, when stress and its consequences are heightened, is unparalleled.

In 2021, Lobel and colleagues showed in another published study of women in the U.S. that prenatal stress during the pandemic onset also predicted worse birth outcomes, including greater likelihood of preterm birth or delivery of a newborn small for gestational age.

The authors conclude that results of the I-COPE Study confirm that stress from the pandemic is a strong, common predictor of anxiety and depressive symptoms in pregnant women. They add that the results “can be used to inform research and clinical interventions to protect against adverse consequences of prenatal stress, anxiety, and depression, as these mental health impacts pose longer-term threats to the health and well-being of women and their offspring.”

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Shimmering Solstice
Shimmering Solstice
Shimmering Solstice
Shimmering Solstice
Back by popular demand, second year promises to be bigger and brighter with new features

Shimmering Solstice at Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, presented by Catholic Health, returns for its second year on  Friday, November 25. Back by popular demand, this holiday themed light show offers visitors the opportunity to behold a series of magical light displays as they walk along the beautiful meandering paths through Old Westbury Gardens’ Walled Garden, Rose Garden, South Lawn, and Allée.

“This walkthrough light show is uniquely designed specifically for Old Westbury Gardens, a beautiful long
island landmark” said Nancy Costopulos, President and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens. “It offers a one-
of-a-kind experience which is now becoming a new holiday tradition.”

This year, even more beautiful visuals have been added including a re-designed interactive area
featuring three new exhibits that will engage adults and children alike; seasonal music throughout the
expanded illuminated event path, a new illuminated water feature on the West Pond, and the Garden of Appreciation will be turned into a lively warming area with a concession stand for seasonal snacks and
drinks.

Shimmering Solstice is a completely custom-built show by Lightswitch, a collective of internationally
recognized lighting, media, and visual designers that has been uniquely designed to highlight the
features of Old Westbury Gardens. The goal was to turn the gardens into a visitor location that can be
enjoyed during the fall and winter holiday season and that would remain consistent with the mission of
Old Westbury Gardens.

“Shimmering Solstice was designed to be a celebration of our space,” said Maura Brush, Director of
Horticulture at Old Westbury Gardens. “The features that define Old Westbury Gardens such as the
formal allées, ponds, and statuary are all illuminated so visitors can view them in a completely different
light.”

This walk-through show is a family friendly experience people of all ages can enjoy and is designed for
visitors to explore at their own pace. For the exciting finale, visitors will once again be dazzled to see the
south facade of Westbury House come alive with magical lights and seasonal sounds—this year with an
exciting twist!

Tickets are on sale now. The show runs on select dates from November 25, 2022 and runs through
January 1, 2023. The admission time starts at 5:30 p.m. Check website for available dates and times.
For more information and to see a video preview of the event, visit https://shimmeringsolstice.com/.

About Old Westbury Gardens:
Built in 1906 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Old Westbury Gardens is the former
home of John S. Phipps, his wife, Margarita Grace Phipps, and their children. Today, as a not-for-profit
organization, Old Westbury Gardens welcomes visitors of all ages for a wide range of historical, cultural,
artistic, educational, horticultural events. Old Westbury Gardens seeks to inspire appreciation of the
early 20 th  century American country estate through faithful preservation and interpretation of its
landscape, gardens, architecture and collections. For more information,
visit  https://www.oldwestburygardens.org/

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Stony Brook’s LCM facility will use $3 million of NIH funding for equipment and structural upgrades

The Laboratory for Comparative Medicine (LCM) at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University has received a $3 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for facility upgrades and new instrumentation to support advanced research on virulent and emerging pathogens.

David Thanassi, PhD, Scientific Director of the LCM. Photo from SBU

The grant was in response to a call for “Emergency Awards: Biocontainment Facility Improvements and Building System Upgrades to Support Pandemic Preparedness” from the NIAID. The one-time NIH funding allotment will help support research on the current COVID-19 pandemic and future investigations centering on antiviral programs, antimicrobial approaches, and therapeutic measures to prevent or mitigate infectious disease outbreaks or future pandemics.

The LCM is engaged in basic, translational, and preclinical research on SARS-CoV-2, the viral agent of COVID-19, as well as other infectious agents. During the past five years, researchers at Stony Brook University have conducted work investigating three different RNA virus families relevant under the American Pandemic Preparedness efforts. In addition, the LCM is being used for research on tick-borne pathogens, which are critical to our area, and for studies on tuberculosis, a global infection.

“This award enables us to make infrastructure improvements and acquire new scientific instrumentation to expand our capabilities to perform research on highly pathogenic agents,” says David Thanassi, PhD, Principal Investigator, Scientific Director of the LCM, and Chair of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. “This is truly a key step toward pandemic-preparedness and provides enhanced resources to not only Stony Brook researchers from multiple school of medicine and other scientific departments, but also state and regional investigators working to combat current and future pandemic threats.”

Stony Brook has a long history of conducting microbial pathogenesis research on emerging pathogens and those that cause common and widespread infection globally. The LCM is a biocontainment facility working on a variety of microbial agents, including viruses and bacteria. Research in the LCM serves multiple academic investigators and groups, as well as biotechnology companies, both within and outside of Stony Brook University.

 

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Sweetpotato Foil Packet Tacos

A Foil Packet Meal for Sweet Fall Simplicity

(Family Features) Fall provides almost endless opportunities to gather friends and family around great food. From tailgates and family events to those precious last outdoor meals before winter sets in, the scenery of autumn is a perfect backdrop for sharing meals together.

Those favorite fall foods are often best when they’re delicious without complications. Taking the guesswork out of cool-weather classics can be as easy as these Sweetpotato Foil Packet Tacos, which are loaded with flavor and can be customized to fit everyone’s taste buds with personalized toppings.

As the key ingredient, sweetpotatoes show off their versatility as an ideal addition to simple or elevated, sweet or savory dishes. Because you can cook and prepare them multiple ways – such as baked, microwaved, grilled, slow cooked or on the stove – they’re easy to use in a wide array of recipes.

Plus, according to the American Diabetes Association, sweetpotatoes are a “diabetes superfood” because they’re rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease. Their “sweet” flavor without the added sugar makes them a pantry staple throughout the fall.

Pro tip: Sweetpotatoes are abundant and have a long shelf-life – up to four weeks if stored properly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources – but never store in the refrigerator as this can cause “chill damage,” leaving them with a hard center and unpleasant taste.

Make the most of your fall meals with family and friends by finding more recipes at ncsweetpotatoes.com.

Sweetpotato Foil Packet Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 pound ground turkey

3 tablespoons taco seasoning

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained

nonstick cooking spray

2 pounds North Carolina sweetpotatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 

2 tablespoons butter

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups fresh chopped spinach

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

sour cream (optional)

guacamole (optional) 

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F.

In skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground meat. Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce and beans; set aside.

Lay out six 12-inch aluminum foil pieces; spray each with nonstick cooking spray.

In center of each foil piece, place 1 cup sweetpotatoes, 1 teaspoon butter, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup spinach, 1/3 cup taco meat and 1/4 cup cheese.

Fold foil sides in over mixture; fold top and bottom foil ends inward and seal. 

Place packets on rimmed cookie sheet; bake until sweetpotatoes are tender, about 25 minutes.

Serve with sour cream or guacamole, if desired.

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By Heidi Sutton

Welcome to the 11th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home! 

Boo

Meet Boo

Look who’s waiting for you at the Smithtown Animal Shelter! This stunning and giant boy is as beautiful on the inside as he is on the outside. Boo loves to get attention and pets. He can be a little dominant with other cats, so he would likely do best as the only pet in the home or with very quiet/low key pets. He is a very large cat, not full Main Coon, but it is in the genetic mix somewhere. Call 631-360-7575 to set up a meet and greet.

Meet Selma & Patricia

Looking for a home together, meet ten-year-old Shih-tzu mixes Selma and Patricia at Little Shelter in Huntington. Like two peas in a pod, this petite pair fit perfectly together, complementing each other’s personalities. Always on the same page, they wholeheartedly agree that they deserve to be the center of attention in most situations, graciously accepting your adoration! “Sisters” at heart, they prefer to do everything in sync, from stirring up some “good” trouble to sharing a cozy spot during nap time. Stop by Little Shelter today and increase your chance at happiness when you double down with Selma and Patricia. Call 631-368-8770.

Meet Milo

At 79 pounds, this hunk is a happy, outgoing and playful guy who is looking for a love connection. Picked up as a stray by a Good Samaritan, he is now at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter  hoping to find a new family to call his own very soon. Estimated to be 5 to 8 years young, Milo walks well on leash, is sweet and bouncy, loves attention and would make a great companion and best friend. He has the sweetest eyes and will melt your heart. He will do best in a home with no cats and with kids over the age of 14. Call 631-451-6950.

Meet Tori

Tori is seeking a new foster or forever home! Available through Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton, Tori is a wonderfully sweet and affectionate dog who is just not built for the shelter life. A two and a half year old lab mix, she was originally rescued from a high kill shelter in Texas, and just when she thought she was out of the woods in a forever home she was attacked by another dog. We can’t blame her for not being happy in a shelter after all of the trouble she has been through in her short life so far.  She is currently so happy in her foster home, however it’s not the perfect forever fit and both her foster mom and Kent agree she deserves the best of the best. Tori is looking for a home with no cats (this playful pup likes to chase), moderate activity (too many new people coming and going can be scary), and lots of love to give. For more information, call 631-727-5731, Ext. 1.

Meet Diamond

A Diamond is associated with strength, love and invincibility, a befitting description for this fourteen-year-old Terrier mix, currently up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Though blind due to mature cataracts, he nevertheless sees the world with flawless clarity, recognizing and basking in the love that surrounds him. Adept at navigating on three legs, he is a testament to not letting anything get in the way of enjoying a full, satisfying life, emphasizing the importance of counting your blessings. With a happy, outgoing demeanor, this Silver Paw Connection senior knows the value of remaining young at heart, knowing that a positive attitude makes all the difference. Warm, affectionate and the perfect carat weight, this true gem is just waiting to be discovered. Remember that a Diamond is forever. Call 631-368-8770.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of Dec. 8.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

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The Jazz Loft

The following are events scheduled at The Jazz Loft for December 2022:

Thurs. 12/1, Friday, 12/2 and Saturday 12/3:    Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker at 7 p.m.                              For three evenings the 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band will present Duke Ellington’s Jazz Nutcracker. Vocalist Danny Bacher accompanies the band. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Monday 12/5  Marty Isenberg, bassist , performs a recital for his Doctor of Music Degree from Stony Brook University at 7 p.m. Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Seniors ,Children and Students, Free for Stony Brook Students, Staff and Faculty with ID.

Wed. 12/7: Young at Heart: It’s The Holiday Season at 1 p.m. The Jazz Loft Trio performs music of the season. Young at Heart is a monthly jazz themed concert series for those that like their jazz in the afternoon. Tickets: $10

Wed. 12/7:  Jazz Loft Trio and Jam at 7 p.m. The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 p.m. followed a jam at 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 at 7 p.m., $5 at 8 p.m.

Thurs. 12/8:  Jazz Dispatch at Madiran Wine Bar in Setauket at 7 p.m.  Jazz Loft regulars, Tom Manuel, trumpet and Steve Salerno, guitar, take their performance to Madiran Wine Bar.

Thurs. 12/8: Bad Little Big Band Holiday Show  at 7 p.m. Pianist Rich Iacona leads his 12 member band in performing music of the season. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Fri. 12/9: Ray Anderson’s Seasonal Solstice Party at 7 p.m. Trombonist Ray Anderson brings on the holiday spirit with Tommy Campbell on drums and Mark Helias on bass. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Sat. 12/10: Interplay Jazz Orchestra Family Show at 1 p.m. The 17 member jazz big band co led by Joe Devassy, trombone and Gary Henderson trumpet perform their annual family holiday concert. Tickets:$ 35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Sat. 12/10:  Tom Manuel’s Eggnog Romp at 7 p.m. Trumpeter and Jazz Loft founder, Tom Manuel performs seasonal music with his quintet. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Mon. 12/12: Stony Brook University Jazz Combos Concert at 7 p.m. Combos of graduate music students perform under the direction of trombonist Ray Anderson and trumpeter Tom Manuel. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors & students, Free for SBU faculty,staff & students with ID

Tuesday 12/13 Moshe Elmakias, pianist, performs a recital for his Doctor of Music Degree from Stony Brook University at 7 p.m. Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Seniors ,Children and Students, Free for Stony Brook Students, Staff and Faculty with ID.

Wed. 12/14:  Jazz Loft Trio and Jam at 7 p.m.  The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 at 7 PM, $5 at 8 PM

Thurs. 12/15, Friday, 12/16, Saturday, 12/17: Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker at 7 p.m.  For three nights the 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band will perform Duke Ellington’s jazz Nutcracker. Trumpeter Tom Manuel directs and narrates and vocalist Danny Bacher accompanies the band. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Sun. 12/18:  Jazz Nativity  at 6 p.m. The candlelight jazz nativity featuring the Biblical Christmas story is performed by a jazz sextet. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

Wed. 12/21: Jazz Loft Trio and Jam at 7 p.m. The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 p.m. followed by a jam at 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 at 7 p.m., $5 at 8 p.m.

Thurs. 12/22:  Nicole Zuraitis Jazz Christmas Party at 7 p.m. Grammy nominated vocalist, pianist and composer, Nicole Zuraitis, appears backed by a big band ensemble to present holiday favorites. Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children 5 and under free

The Jazz Loft is located at 275 Christian Ave in Stony Brook Village. Tickets are available at www.thejazzloft.org and if available, in person prior to events. For more information, call 631-751-1895.

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METRO photo
Exercise can actually reduce a cold’s duration

By David Dunaief, M.D,

Dr. David Dunaief

With autumn upon us, cold season is sneaking up on us. Most frequently caused by the notorious 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 supplements and lifestyle management.

Here, we’ll separate myth from fact about which supplements may be beneficial and which may not. 

How can you get symptom relief?

Let’s start with the basics to meet your most immediate need when you start experiencing cold symptoms.

If you have congestion or coughing symptoms, time-tested symptom relief may help. Sitting in a steamy bathroom, which simulates a medical mist tent, can help. Remember, dry heat is your enemy. If your home is dry, use a cool mist humidifier to put some humidity back in the air.

Consuming salt-free soups loaded with vegetables can help increase your nutrient intake and loosen congestion. I start with a sodium-free 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 really help?

You may have heard that zinc helps treat a cold. But what does the medical literature say? The answer is a resounding, YES!

According to a meta-analysis that included 13 trials, zinc in any form taken within 24 hours of 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, which was 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 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.

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, note that the FDA has warned against nasal zinc administration with sprays, which has led to permanent loss of smell for some people.

As for the studies, 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.

What about vitamin C?

According to a review of 29 trials with a combined population of over 11,000, vitamin C did not show any significant benefit in prevention or reduction of cold symptoms or duration in the general population (4). Thus, 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 magic bullet?

After review of 24 controlled clinical trials, according to the Cochrane Database, the jury is still out on the effectiveness of echinacea for treatment of duration and symptoms, but the results are disappointing presently and, at best, are 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?

People with colds need rest — at least that was the theory. However, a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine may have changed 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 perceived themselves to be highly fit had a 46 percent reduction in the number of days with colds compared to those who perceived themselves to have low fitness. The symptoms of colds were reduced significantly as well.

What’s the upshot?

For symptom relief, simple home remedies may work better than any supplements. Zinc is potentially useful in treating and preventing the common cold. Use caution with dosing, however, to reduce side effects. Echinacea and vitamin C may or may not provide benefits, but don’t stop taking them if you feel they help you. Lastly, exercise can 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.

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