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Pumpkin Pie

By Heidi Sutton

Continuing the theme of classic holiday pies from last week, no Thanksgiving would be complete without pumpkin pie or its close cousin, sweet potato pie. Can’t decide? Whip up both and watch them be devoured. Happy holidays!

Pumpkin Pie

Recipe courtesy of Libby’s

Pumpkin Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 large eggs

1 can 15 ounces Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin

1 can 12 fluid ounces Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Milk

1 unbaked 9-inch 4-cup volume deep-dish pie shell

Whipped cream

DIRECTIONS:

Mix sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl; stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk. Pour into pie shell. Bake in preheated 425°F oven 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F; bake 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Sweet Potato Pie

Recipe courtesy of Eagle Brand

Sweet Potato Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1 pound sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled

1/4 cup butter

1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk

1 teaspoon grated orange peel

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Beat sweet potatoes and butter in large bowl until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, orange peel, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and eggs; mix well. Pour into crust. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown. Cool. Top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream before serving.

See more Thanksgiving-related articles and recipes online at tbrnewsmedia.com including healthy holiday recipe swaps, turkey cooking tips, and holiday side dishes. 

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A unique aspect of the whale is that the public will be able to step inside to view its internal organs. Photo courtesy of the Whaling Museum

The Whaling Museum & Education Center of Cold Spring Harbor has  announced the new fabrication and acquisition of a life-size inflatable whale, which will travel to locations across Long Island in a new “Whale on Wheels” educational program. 

This will be the only whale of its kind in the state of New York and will serve as a crucial educational tool to address the needs of children from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade in the museum’s traveling programs.

Photo courtesy of The Whaling Museum

The inflatable whale is a 45-foot Sperm Whale. A unique aspect of the whale is that the public will be able to step inside to view its internal organs. The inflatable is a custom piece fabricated by the company Landmark Creations in Minnesota, and will use pressurized air with a blower. The whale’s design was modeled utilizing multiple sperm whale images.

Museum educators will use the whale to bring the sperm whale’s story, history, and biology to life. Sperm whales are the largest of the toothed whales, and are found in all deep oceans worldwide. With their massive, square-shaped heads, adult males can weigh 90,000 to 100,000 pounds, which is more than 700 people combined. From the height of Yankee whaling in the 19th century through the 1970’s, sperm whales were heavily targeted by American and international whalers, pushing the whale to the brink of extinction. An international ban on whaling went into effect in 1987.

Today, sperm whale populations are still slow to recover, and are currently listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Sperm whales are threatened by vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, marine debris ingestion, and other threats from human impacts on the ocean environment. 

Similar to real whales, the inflatable whale is designed with realistic scars on its body, such as propeller scars on its tail, to help demonstrate the pressures whales face today.

Main support for this project comes from a $16,050 grant from The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, which primarily supports the study of Long Island history and its role in the American experience. Robert D. L. Gardiner was the 16th Lord of the Manor of Gardiner’s Island until his death in 2004. The Foundation is inspired by Gardiner’s personal passion for New York history.

“We are very thankful to the Gardiner Foundation for partnering with our Museum to enable our education team to provide schools and libraries with the greatest teaching tool of all — a traveling life-size whale,” noted Nomi Dayan, Executive Director of the museum.

Additional funding for this project comes from an Innovation Grant awarded from the Long Island Library Resources Council, which supports unique and new projects in cultural institutions in the region.

The whale will arrive at the museum at the end of November, and the museum plans to introduce the whale to the public in Spring 2025. 

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METRO photo

By Heidi Sutton

Sweet potatoes may be stars; cornbread dressing a contender. Dinner rolls are divine and green bean casserole a go-to. But Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without turkey.

Even in households that don’t eat meat, plant-based turkey alternatives find their way onto the dinner table in a nod to Thanksgiving tradition. Given the emphasis placed on the main course each Thanksgiving, cooking a turkey can be intimidating. These turkey-cooking tips can calm anyone’s nerves and result in a mouth-watering main course.

Allow ample time for thawing. Some people may not be able to buy a fresh turkey, and millions of individuals purchase frozen turkeys each year. The Food Network says it can take 24 hours per every five pounds to thaw a turkey. Therefore, if you have a 15-pounder, allow for three days for thawing. Always thaw a turkey in a refrigerator.

Get the right size bird. The general rule of thumb is 1 pound (uncooked) to 1 1⁄2 pounds of turkey per person if you’re buying a whole turkey. Rather than purchasing the largest turkey you can find for a large crowd, consider two smaller turkeys or one turkey and one breast to make cooking more even. Smaller birds are more tender as well.

Adjust the temperature. The food and cooking resource The Kitchn advises preheating an oven to 450 F, then dropping the temperature to 350 F after putting the turkey into the oven. Cook, on average, 13 minutes per each pound of turkey. The turkey is done when it registers a minimum temperature of 165 F in the thickest part of the thigh.

To brine or not to brine? Many food fanatics swear by brining turkey to achieve more moist and flavorful meat. However, a wet brine may not lead to the crispiest skin possible. 

Good Housekeeping suggests trying a dry brine instead. This involves rubbing salt all over the raw turkey, placing the bird into a large plastic bag, and refrigerating overnight or up to two days before cooking; otherwise, purchase a kosher turkey, which already has been salted from the inside out.

Avoid stuffing the bird. Rather than stuffing the turkey and cooking everything en masse, prepare the stuffing mixture separate from the turkey. This reduces the risk of contamination from the turkey’s raw juices and helps to achieve a crispy coating on the stuffing guests will enjoy. 

Make an aromatic roasting rack. Turkeys typically are placed on a metal rack for cooking so the juices do not cause the turkey to stick to the pan. However, you also can cut onions and lay them with a bed of whole celery stalks and carrots to elevate the roast. This creates extra flavor in the bird and the vegetables also can be served or mixed into the stuffing.

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A JOLLY HAPPY SOUL 'Frosty' opens at the Engeman Theater on Nov. 23.
PROGRAMS

World Fisheries Day

Celebrate World Fisheries Day at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor. Come learn about the trout they raise with hatchery tours on Nov. 21 and 22 at 3:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 and 24 at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. along with egg taking demonstrations on Nov. 23 and 24 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on Nov. 22 at 9:30 a.m. with hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven continues its nature series with Growing Up Wild at Cedar Beach Nature Center, Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai on Nov. 23 at 3 pm. Join them for some fall family fun, learn about nature and take part in an activity. For ages 3 to 6. Free but registration required by emailing [email protected].

Lovely Leaves

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown presents a family program, Lovely Leaves, on Nov. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Enjoy a short nature walk to see some common fall leaves, then create a variety of autumn leaf inspired arts and crafts! $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Sunday Funday: Treerific Trees

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for a fun outdoor tree adventure on Nov. 24 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about local trees and the animals who live in them while doing a craft, going on a short walk, and participating in a fun treetivity. For families with children over the age of 5. $15 per child, $5 adult. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org. 

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Nov. 25 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Secret Sirens Scavenger Hunt

From now through December, take part in a Secret Sirens Scavenger Hunt at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor during gallery hours of Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join a hunt of mythic proportions as you search for hidden merfolk tails in the gallery. Discover them all and score a prize! Enjoy self-serve crafts in the workshop inspired by our new exhibit, Monsters & mermaids! Free with admission. No registration required. 631-367-3418

FILM

‘The Polar Express’

Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce presents All Aboard the Polar Express! at the Chamber Train Car, corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station on Nov. 21, 22, Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 23, 24, Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. $20 per person includes a screening of The Polar Express, popcorn, water, a cookie and hot cocoa. To reserve your ticket, visit www.pjstchamber.com. 631-821-1313

‘The Last Starfighter’

Cinema Art Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of The Last Starfighter on Nov. 24 at noon. After Earthling Alex conquers the Starfighter video game, he is recruited by alien Centauri to be part of an elite legion of fighters. Leaving behind his trailer park home for the outer regions of space, Alex becomes the last hope for the beleaguered Star League and hundreds of worlds — including Earth. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

Celebrate the holidays with Barnaby Saves Christmas at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28 with a sensory friendly performance on Nov. 24. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As our littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Frosty’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport celebrates the return of Frosty from Nov. 23 to Dec. 29. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from 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! Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!’

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! on the Main Stage on Nov. 24 at 3 p.m. Whatever you do, don’t let the Pigeon star in his own musical production! It’s not easy being the Pigeon-you never get to do ANYTHING! But when the bus driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird CAN do something. Featuring an innovative mix of song and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. Tickets range from $16 to $31. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

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Red-bellied Woodpecker. Pixabay photo

By John L. Turner

Part Two

John Turner

Of the twenty-two species found in North America (twenty-three if you’re optimistic the Ivory-billed Woodpecker still exists and who doesn’t hope that?) we have seven woodpecker species  inhabiting Long Island’s forests. 

The Pileated is the largest, being about the same size as the American Crow. It is the “Woody Woodpecker” of woodpeckers! They have begun to repopulate Long Island after a long absence, benefitting from the maturing forests of large trees in protected parks and preserves.  

I saw my first Long Island Pileated earlier this year in the Humes Preserve in northern Nassau County, when a male broke out from the tree line and flew across a long  meadow before reaching the woods on the other side, providing a five second view of this unmistakable species. Running to the point where it had re-entered the forest I enjoyed closer views of the bird banging away on the bark of a tree, interspersed with the bird’s raucous call. If you hear them on a hike, look around on tree trunks for their distinctive, rectangular-shaped excavation holes they make in search of beetle grubs, their favorite prey.   

Downy woodpecker. Pixabay photo

In contrast, the Downy Woodpecker is the smallest of the Island’s  woodpeckers and is also quite common, with almost every forest and suburban woodlot hosting a pair of Downies, where they often reveal their presence by their downward slurring “whinny” call. Recently, in a property on the west side of the Nissequogue River, I watched a pair of Downies fly into a nearby black walnut tree and perform a courtship dance. The two forms moved in jerky robotic motions responding to each other — a crazy motion following short bouts of stillness broken once again by motion. This went on for thirty seconds or so before they flew off, leaving a smile on my face.   

The Downy Woodpecker’s slightly larger cousin — the Hairy Woodpecker — is also common and widespread in New York. The Hairy prefers deeper, more intact forests than does the Downy. These two species are easily confused. One clue to distinguish them is found in the white outer tail feathers of the two species. A long time ago, as a youthful birder, I learned this clue: the Downy Woodpecker has black spots on its feather while the Hairy lacks them, which I put to memory using a mnemonic device “The Downy has dots while the Hairy hasn’t”; the Hairy’s bill is also proportionally larger.  

The most beautiful woodpecker that calls Long Island home is undoubtedly the Red-headed Woodpecker. No other woodpecker, or bird in North America for that matter, has the Red-headed’s striking color combination of a brilliant red head and black and white wings and body. Unfortunately, breeding bird data indicates this species is in fairly rapid decline in the state although the cause(s) has not been fully identified. 

Red-headed Woodpecker. Pixabay photo

One reported cause is being hit by cars due to its habit of hawking for insects flying over roads. They are a rare breeder here.  Several years ago a breeding pair nested in Manorville but seems to have vacated the area and there is currently breeding activity in the Flanders of the Pine Barrens.

It’s relative, the Red-bellied Woodpecker,  shows a reverse trend in the state, as this woodpecker, once of a more southerly distribution, has rapidly increased in abundance. In fact, in Ludlow Griscom’s 1923 Birds of the New York City Region, the Red-bellied is reported as being a very rare bird having been seen merely three times in the area, the last being in 1895. However, by the 1960’s the species was well established and has continued to expand its range northward, being a confirmed breeder in slightly more than one-third of the census blocks in the 2005 NYS Breeding Bird Atlas. The bird is now a common breeder here and its breeding range has extended as far north as mid-New England. They are found in virtually every wooded park on Long Island. 

The Northern Flicker, the males being distinguished from females by the black mustache mark they possess, is the most widespread woodpecker in New York. A lover of ants, the Flicker spends more time on the ground to feed on them than any other woodpecker. This predilection for ants, which are unavailable in the winter, is the main reason why flickers are among the most highly migratory of all woodpeckers.

I remember hiking several decades ago through a park in the Long Island Pine Barrens where a wildfire had burned off the forest floor and understory, exposing countless large ant mounds. For the next several weeks I saw Flickers commonly here, taking advantage of countless ants exposed by the fire. 

This leaves, for last, the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, a bird that, as the name suggests, has a diet different than it’s brethren. Sapsuckers routinely drill small holes, typically parallel rows, in thin barked trees and routinely return to lap up the sap and any small insects attracted to it with their aforementioned brush-like tongues. This species doesn’t breed here, raising its young further north, but both adults and immatures can be seen on Long Island, especially during fall migration.  

There are two other woodpecker species found in New York State but not on Long Island — the Black-backed and Three-toed Woodpeckers. These are Adirondack specialties where they inhabit dense spruce forests. Both species share the basic black-and-white pattern of most other woodpeckers but instead of having red crowns possess yellow ones. They are also distinctive by the three toed feet they have rather than four. They are most abundant in forests where fire has killed swaths of  trees, setting the stage for the many beetles that feast on the dead wood. While disturbance like wildfires typically can adversely affect wildlife,  woodpeckers are a group of birds that can benefit from perturbations in the environment.   

Whether it’s their unique behavior, impressive anatomical adaptations, or ecological importance due to their cavity making abilities, the native woodpecker species of Long Island are an interesting and important part of nature’s fabric here.  Why not spend some time getting to know the species which inhabit yards, parks and woodlands in your neighborhood?

Part I of Wonderful Woodpeckers appeared in the issue of October 24. Read it here.

A resident of Setauket, author John L. Turner is a naturalist, conservation co-chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, and Conservation Policy Advocate for the Seatuck Environmental Association.

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Lacey Chabert in a scene from 'Hot Frosty.' Photo courtesy of Netflix

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Christmas is a time of giving: gifts, good cheer, and kind wishes. Christmas is also the time for an endless parade of holiday movies launched by every channel and streaming service. And, like a handful of coal, Netflix stuffed our stockings with the one-note, no-joke Hot Frosty. 

Writer Russell Hainline’s premise is simple. Depressed widow Kathy Barrett (Lacey Chabert), owner of Kathy’s Kafé, lives in the town of Hope Springs (subtle). Still grieving over the death of her husband to cancer, her life is falling apart: the roof leaks, the heat does not work, and she no longer cooks for herself, represented by a counter of empty takeout containers. However, other than that, she seems to be doing okay. Let’s call it grief light. 

Lacey Chabert in a scene from ‘Hot Frosty’ with Dustin Milligan. Photo courtesy of Netflix

Her friend, Mel (Sherry Miller), runs Reclaimed Rags, a second-hand clothing store across from the café. Mel gives Kathy a scarf with the “wise” advice: “You’ll never find the warmth unless you venture out into the cold.” Kathy graciously accepts the scarf but then notices that between two scarved snowmen is an Adonis-like ice sculpture without one. Feeling generous(?), she wraps the scarf around the sculpture, bringing it/him (Dustin Milligan) to life. (Don’t worry—the scarf covers the naughty bits.)

On the plus side, the adult fairy tale kicks into gear very quickly, without much backstory or exposition (or explanation). On the negative side, the adult fairy tale kicks into gear very quickly, without much backstory or exposition (or explanation). The writing is puerile, and Jerry Ciccoritti’s direction club fisted.

The animated sculpture crashes into Reclaimed Rags and steals some clothing, including a vest with the name “Jack.” Thus, he is called “Jack.” The next morning, Kathy finds Jack standing in front of the diner. Thinking he might need help—given his strange behavior—she brings him inside … because that is what one does with psychotics who say, “I was made of snow, now I’m made of not snow.” (Scintillating dialogue.) When he claims, “I’ve never had food before,” one questions why she does not call for help or simply runs screaming into the street. Instead, she takes him to the local doctor, Dottie (Katy Mixon Greer), who concludes that he might be the snowman he claims to be (for this, she went to medical school?). They agree not to take him to the police because the sheriff tends to overreact. 

Kathy moves him into her house, and the newly sentient Jack immediately falls for her. The rest of the interminable film focuses on their growing relationship and his ability to learn anything by watching television. (This includes the discovery that vampires are afraid of crosses. Very Christmasy.)

An unpleasant and fairly ugly encounter with a snow-banked cougar, Jane (Lauren Holly), concludes with Jack’s innocent punchline, “Do you want me to get behind you and push?” Fortunately, this thread goes nowhere besides landing Jack a maintenance job at the middle school. The majority of his work is decorating the gym for the winter dance.

The film is a mix of styles—like a Christmas gift bag of assorted pointy objects. (Each is different, but all are painful in their own ways.) The occasional joke that lands is a holiday miracle. (Though a Mean Girls reference is pretty smart.) There are two montages because one is not nauseatingly enough. 

A grating subplot focuses on the sheriff hunting for the person who smashed the clothing store’s glass. The officer is a parody of a spoof of a send-up of a take-off on small-town law enforcement. In a film of mostly poor moments, the usually hilarious Craig Robinson is saddled with some of the most eggnog-curdling dialogue in this (or any) film: “You can’t buy me breakfast. It might influence the investigation.” (Hilarious.) Joe Lo Truglio’s deputy sheriff makes Barney Fife look like Hamlet’s Horatio. The café/ice cube scene might rank as the unfunniest bit in holiday history.

Chabert and Milligan work well together, play it straight enough, and do not lack charm. But the material is so painfully underdeveloped and wrong-headed that they cannot mine a moment of tension in the ninety minutes. His declarations like “I still don’t understand how all of this is happening, but I am so glad you were the one who found me” are only matched by his constant statement of “I love you.” Will she say it back? Can she? Is she ready? (Spoiler alert. Yes.)

Corralling the underdeveloped townspeople, the film builds to a lazy finale—a Frosty the Snowman/E.T./It’s a Wonderful Life rip-off. (Yes, they can claim homage to the last one, but it is not.) A strong cast fails to shovel this slushy mess. (Even the outtake bloopers are not funny.)

Perhaps the film has created a new sub-genre: the Frenetically Lugubrious Christmas Fantasy Rom-Uncom. (Ho-Ho-No, Thank you.) Next year, instead of holiday fare like Hot Frosty, Netflix, please just give us the cheese-of-the month club.

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TIME TO RUN YOUR TAILFEATHERS OFF! The 17th annual Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s 5k Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving Day at 9 a.m. Photo by Karen Forman
Ongoing

Holiday Light Show

The Riverhead Holiday Light Show, 149 Edwards Ave., Calverton is back for its 7th season on various days from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. The largest drive-through light show in Suffolk County features dozens of dazzling displays to delight the entire family! For schedule and tickets, visit www.holidaylightshow.com.

Thursday Nov. 21

The Parlor of Mystery

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents an evening of magic and wonder with The Parlor of Mystery at 7 p.m. This captivating show promises an unparalleled experience that combines mind-bending illusions, jaw-dropping magic, and side-splitting comedy. Featuring Bob Baker, Carl Mercurio and host Mike Maione. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. 631-655-7798

Vanderbilt Lecture

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series at the Reichert Planetarium at 7 p.m. Historian Jeffrey I. Richman will give a narrated slideshow, Building the Brooklyn Bridge, including many one-of-a-kind 3D images of the bridge as it was being built, projected onto the planetarium dome. All attendees will receive 3D glasses free of charge to help them enjoy this unique experience. Tickets are $10. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Starry Nights at SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents Starry Nights in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. Enjoy enchanting chamber music performance featuring masterful musicians from the Stony Brook University Department of Music, featuring Hagai Shaham on violin, and Colin Carr on cello. Tickets range from $49 to $56. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Friday Nov. 22

Holiday Train Show

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

Sound Symphony Concert

The Sound Symphony Orchestra directed by Maestro Dorothy Savitch will be performing at Comsewogue High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station at 7:30 p.m. Program includes Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5; Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3, featuring 2024 Concerto Competition Winner John Han; and Coleridge Taylor’s Danse Negré. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students, children under 12 free. www.soundsymphony.org

Northport Symphony Concert

The Northport Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Eric Mahl, presents the first concert of its 2024-2025 season at Northport High School  154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport tonight at 8 p.m. Program will include Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World,” “Overture to The Song of Hiawatha” by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and the “Capriccio Bohèmiene” by Rachmaninoff. Tickets are $15. www.northportsymphony.org.

Friday Night Face Off

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

Saturday Nov. 23

Holiday Train Show

See Nov. 22 listing.

Free Turkey for Veterans

Team EVA (Every Veteran Appreciated) will be handing out free frozen turkeys with a bag of canned goods to all veterans at the Elks Lodge, 41 Horseblock Road, Centereach from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. First come/first serve at this drive up event. For more information, visit GoTeamEva.org.

Brookhaven Polar Bear Plunge

Town of Brookhaven will host the 15th annual Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai at 11:30 a.m. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The annual event is held to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics New York athletes in the Long Island region. For more information, or to register online, please visit www.polarplungeny.org\brookhaven.

Holiday Craft Show

Brick Clay Studio and Gallery, 2 Flowerfield, Suites 57 & 60, St. James will hold an opening reception for its Holiday Craft Show today and Nov. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for unique handmade gifts while enjoying light refreshments. Take a chance on a raffle with proceeds donated to Long Island Cares. Gift certificates and take home clay kits also available. Sale runs through Dec. 22. https://thebrickstudio.org

Walt Whitman H.S. Craft Fair

Walt Whitman High School, 301 West Hills Road, Huntington Station presents its 23rd 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. $2 admission for ages 13 and up. 631-549-8582

Mt. Sinai PTO Holiday Craft Fair

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

Santaport

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

Artist Reception & Pop-Up Event

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for an artist reception for its annual holiday exhibit, Celebrate the Season, and shop the latest collections of K.Reboli Fine Jewelry and Old  Field Apothecary from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sample wines from Suhru & Lieb Vineyards or snag some hot cocoa. Light snacks will be served. No reservations are required to attend this free family-friendly event. 631-751-7707

Holiday Craft Fair

The New Interdisciplinary School, 430 Sills Road, Yaphank will hold a Holiday Craft Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join them for holiday shopping from over 50 vendors along with raffles, children’s activities, face painting, food trucks and more. Free admission, 631-924-5583

Historical Walk

Join Town of Brookhaven’s Historian Barbara Russell and Three Village Historical Society’s Bev Tyler for a historical walk at West Meadow Beach, Trustees Road, Stony Brook at 11 a.m. Take a special look into the past as you walk, observe and discuss West Meadow Beach and Creek, learning of the natural and cultural history of this unique location. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Three Village Lights Launch Night

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

Jackie Evancho in Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents Jackie Evancho: My Story in the Recital Hall at 8 p.m.  Join the singer as she takes you on her musical journey from being a 10-year-old “America’s Got Talent” phenomenon to becoming a chart-topping platinum selling artist. Prices range from $53 to $76. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Sunday Nov. 24

Holiday Train Show

See Nov. 22 listing.

Holiday Craft Show

See Nov. 23 listing.

Northport Walking Tour

Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport presents a Historic Main Street Walking Tour at 1:30 p.m. Join local historian Dan Sheehan as he weaves the tale of Northport’s Historic Business District during this lively walking tour of Main Street. Travel back in time as you hear the stories of the people and landmarks that helped shape Northport, including Jack Kerouac, the Northport Oyster Barons, Rum Runners and the Trolley. All ages welcome. $7 per person at www.northporthistorical.org.

CAC welcomes Adam Nimoy

Join director and author Adam Nimoy, the son of legendary actor Leonard Nimoy, at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington at 2:30 p.m. for a screening and discussion of his acclaimed documentary film, For the Love of Spock, and new memoir The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy. Tickets are $28 and  include film screening, interview with audience Q&A, and book signing reception with live musical entertainment. Copies of his new memoir, The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy, are available to bundle with the film program or at the box office. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Monday Nov. 25

St. Vincent de Paul fundraiser

John Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport will host A Concert In Gratitude, a musical event honoring Northport’s own music educators, Dana Warren and Marie Michalopoulos, and celebrating the town’s rich musical heritage, at 7 p.m. With performances by The Warren Five & Guests, The Blast, The Little Wilson Band, The Jack Daniels Band, Tricycle, Steve & Sandy Edwards and Natalie Seus & Steve Messina. All proceeds will support St. Vincent de Paul. Tickets are available on the theater’s website, www.engemantheater.com under the “Events” tab, listed as Third Party Events. Prices range from $50 to $75. 

Tuesday Nov. 26

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a lecture on the human brain by historian Saul Fathi in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

An Afternoon of Bingo!

The Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will hold a free Bingo event for Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by All American Assisted Living. For more information or to register, please call 631-451-5312.

Stand-up Comedy at the CAC

Stand-Up/Sit-Down’s live comedy series returns to the Cinema Arts Centre with  great night of stand-up with comedian Joey Kola at 8 p.m.  Following the comedy show, Kola will “Sit-Down” with host Steven Taub to share stories about his career. Tickets are $35, $25 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Wednesday Nov. 27

Community Blood Drive

It’s the season of giving. The Town of Smithtown will host a blood drive by New York Blood Center at the  Eugene A. Cannataro Senior Citizen Center, 420 Middle Country Road, Smithtown from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Every donor will receive a shirt as a gift. To make an appointment, call 1-800-688-0900 or visit www.nybc.org. Walk-ins welcome.

Port Jefferson Tree Lighting

Join the Port Jefferson Business Improvement District (BID) for their 3rd annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the intersection of Broadway and East Broadway in the Village of Port Jefferson at 6 p.m. Watch Santa light the tree and enjoy live holiday music by Erik McCormack from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and a performance by Shine Dance Company with free hot chocolate and candy canes. www.portjeff.com

Thursday Nov. 28
Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Foot Races

Miller Avenue School, 3 Miller Ave., Shoreham will host the 43rd annual Shoreham-Wading River Thanksgiving Foot Races at 8 a.m. with 5-mile and 1-mile runs for various ages. Proceeds benefit scholarships. Fee is $15 in advance, $20 race day. Call 631-821-8116 or visit www.swrschools.org. 

Turkey Trot

The 17th 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 $45 day of race, $15 fun run. Call 631-629-4950 visit www.townwidefund.org.

Smithtown Kickers Turkey Trot

10th annual Smithtown Kickers 5k Turkey Trot starts at Smithtown Elementary School, 51 Lawrence Ave., Smithtown at 9 a.m. with awards for top finishers in each age group. Choices include 1 mile Family Fun Run for $15 ad Turkey Trot 5k for $25 in advance by Nov. 27, $35 day of race. www.smithtownkickers.com.

Free Thanksgiving dinners in our community:

◆ The Steam Room, 4 East Broadway, Port Jefferson will once again offer a complimentary turkey dinner with all the trimmings for dine in guests only on Nov. 28 from noon to 5 p.m., courtesy of owner Vinny Seiter. For more information, call 631-928-6690.

◆ Word of Truth Church, 208 Jamaica Ave., Medford will serve a Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 28 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.  Please RSVP at 631-806-0614 (call/text) by Nov. 24. 

◆ Central Presbyterian Church, 240 Main St., Huntington invites the community to join them for a Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 28 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy appetizers, roasted turkey with all the trimmings, desserts and beverages. Limited takeout and delivery also available. RSVP by Nov. 27 by calling 631-421-3663.

◆ Church of the Harvest, 572 Raynor Ave., Riverhead will host a free Thanksgiving Day dinner on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. A full turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be available to all those alone or in need. For more information, call 631-727-1977. 

Theater

‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

Step into a world of pure imagination this holiday season as the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Nov. 14 to Dec. 29. Join young Charlie Bucket and four other lucky Golden Ticket winners as they embark on an unforgettable journey through Willy Wonka’s magical candy factory. With beloved songs from the 1971 film, this production promises to be a treat for the entire family. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B11.

‘A Christmas Carol’

“I will honor Christmas in my heart…” Celebrate the season with the 40th annual production of A Christmas Carol at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 9 to Dec. 28. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the meaning of Christmas — past, present, and future. Tickets are $25 through November; $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12 in December. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Annie Warbucks’

Community Playhouse of Northport presents Annie Warbucks at the Brosnan Theater at 158 Laurel Avenue, Northport on Nov. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 24 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org. 631-683-8444

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents It’s A Wonderful Life from Dec. 7 to 29. Based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern, this beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, and $25 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’

The Minstrel Players present their annual production of A Christmas Carol at Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport on Dec. 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232.

Film

‘The Philadelphia Story’

As part of its Comic Gems series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave, Huntington presents a screening of The Philadelphia Story (1940) on Nov. 25 at 7:30 p.m. After a rich woman’s ex-husband and a tabloid-type reporter turn up just before her planned remarriage, she begins to learn the truth about herself. A convergence of golden-age talent featuring Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart and John Howard, this fast-talking screwball comedy is one of the greatest American films of all time. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Class Reunion

— Ward Melville High School Class of 2014 will hold its 10 year reunion at The Waterview, 44 Fairway Drive, Port Jefferson on Nov. 30 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are  $100 — plus ones allowed. Includes open bar, passed appetizers, and dinner. Please email [email protected] for the link to purchase tickets.

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Museum

The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation will offer a free comprehensive grant workshop to Long Island and New York metropolitan area historic 501(c)(3) organizations at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium at 180 Little Neck Road in Centerport, on January 14, 2025. The workshop will educate the area’s historic community on financial support that is currently available from the Foundation and provide guidance on the grant application process.

Presenting organizations at the workshop will include The Preservation League of New York, the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s Sacred Sites, the Greater Hudson Heritage Network, East Hampton Library, Long Island University, and Burying Grounds Preservation Group.

“The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation views this introduction to funding opportunities as an active effort to assist our historic organizations to achieve sustainability. Each of the workshop presenters is supported by RDLGF to aid our region’s historic outreach and growth,” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.

Attendance is limited to two participants from each organization. The attending organizations must have a historic mission and support the study, stewardship and promotion of education relating to Long Island and New York’s role in American history, scholarships and historic preservation. Advance approval for participation is required.

Interested organizations must RSVP no later than January 8, 2025 to [email protected]. Attendees will be contacted with an approval notice before the event. Light lunch will be served.

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Lucky
Lucky
Lucky

Adopt Lucky!    

This handsome, black-and-white male, labrador mix at the Smithtown Animal Shelter is approximately four years old. Lucky is a golden nugget of joy in search of his four-leaf clover. Sadly, luck was not on his side when he was abandoned by the people who adopted him due to a change in their living situation. Despite his heartbreak, Lucky remains incredibly sweet, loving, and playful. The dedicated team at the Animal Shelter exclaims that this good boy is the most outgoing, friendly pup who loves meeting new people. To say that Lucky is a social butterfly would be an understatement.

Lucky has so much love to give, is full of energy, and can be adopted to a home with children, and likely other pets. He has a penchant for escape, so this is something that his future family will need to keep in mind. Lucky is an absolute crowd-pleasing delight, who would make a wonderful addition to a household looking for a fun-loving companion.

If you are interested in meeting Lucky, please fill out an application and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

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

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

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Hearty, filling, festive recipes to complement your main course

Don’t let turkey and ham have all the fun this holiday season. After all, you know your guests are likely to have plates piled high with all their favorite festive side dishes.

These hearty solutions are inspired by harvest season, offering comforting taste and mouthwatering flavors to make your holiday meal truly memorable. There’s nothing wrong with the classics – mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and the like – but these recipes from “Cookin’ Savvy” can give your gathering a special seasonal spin.

Discover more holiday recipes by visiting Culinary.net.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow Sauce
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”

YIELD: Serves 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS: 

1/4 cup avocado oil
1/2 stick butter, melted
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
3 pounds sweet potatoes, sliced in circles

Marshmallow Sauce:
1 tablespoon butter
2 cups mini marshmallows, plus additional for garnish, divided
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

DIRECTIONS: 

Heat oven to 400 F. In bowl, mix oil, melted butter, garlic powder and onion powder. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Add sweet potatoes and coat well. In baking dish, line sweet potatoes around pan in circle. Drizzle with leftover oil mixture. Bake 40 minutes. To make marshmallow sauce: In skillet, melt butter and 2 cups mini marshmallows. Remove from heat and whisk in cream. Place in bowl and add additional mini marshmallows for garnish. Place sweet potatoes on serving platter in same lined up fashion as they were in baking dish. Serve with marshmallow sauce.

Sprouts and Squash Roast
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”

YIELD: Serves 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS: 

1/4 cup avocado oil
1/2 stick butter, melted
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon thyme
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1 package (12 ounces) frozen Brussels sprouts
1 package (10 ounces) frozen butternut squash
1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
1 cup pecans
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup cranberries

DIRECTIONS: 

Heat oven to 400 F. In bowl, mix oil, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and thyme. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Cut Brussels sprouts in half, if desired. Add brussels sprouts and butternut squash to oil mixture and coat well. Place on lined cookie sheet and bake 20 minutes. In large bowl, mix bacon pieces, pecans, pumpkin seeds, cranberries and roasted sprouts and squash. Mix well and place in serving bowl.

Herbed Wild Rice and Apples
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”

YIELD: Serves 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS: 

4 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon minced onion
1 apple, chopped
2 packages (8 ounces each) long-grain wild rice
2/3 cup apple juice
1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
1 tablespoon rosemary
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
2/3 cup pecans
2/3 cup cranberries
garlic and herb cheese spread, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

In skillet over medium heat, saute butter, onion and apple pieces. When apples soften, add rice, apple juice, bacon pieces and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook about 10 minutes. In large bowl, mix pecans, cranberries and rice mixture. Place in serving dish and crumble herbed cheese on top, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

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