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IN PERFECT HARMONY The Harbormen Chorus will perform a free Holiday Concert at the First Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Dec. 5 from 1 to 3:20 p.m. (20 minute sets with 20 minutes in between) during the 25th annual Charles Dickens Festival. Photo from Harbormen Chorus
Thursday Dec. 2

Virtual Lunch & Learn

The Huntington Historical Society continues its virtual Lunch & Learn series with a presentation by Jeff Richman titled Building the Brooklyn Bridge at noon. The historian at Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery since 2007, Richman will discuss his fifth and latest book, Building the Brooklyn Bridge, 1869-1883: An Illustrated History with Images in 3D. Presentation will last 45 minutes with time for commentary and Q&A from participants. Suggested donation of $10. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Friday Dec. 3

An evening with Mick Moloney

Celebrate St. James welcomes award-winning musician, recording artist and author Mick Moloney to the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James  on Friday, Dec. 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. Moloney will present an informative talk titled Exploring Our Roots — Vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley on the wonderful Irish and Jewish collaborations that contribute to the history of musical theater. Donation of $25, $20 seniors. Refreshments will be served. For reservations, call 631-984-0201.

Saturday Dec. 4

Christmas Fair & Wreath Sale

The First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn, 497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn will hold a Christmas Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with Christmas decor, wreathes, poinsettias and gift items – something for everyone. Call 261-2150.

Holiday Boutique

The Rocky Point PTA will hold its annual Holiday Boutique at Rocky Point Middle School, 76 Rocky Point-Yaphank Road, Rocky Point from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with lots of vendors, kids shopping at Candy Cane Lane, gift wrapping station, kids craft table and story time, photo ops with Santa Claus ($10) and more. Free admission. Visit www.rockypointpta.com.

Charles Dickens Festival 

Port Jefferson will host its 25th annual Charles Dickens Festival today and Dec. 5 starting at 10 a.m. The village will magically transform into the Dickensian era with streets filled with roaming characters such as Father Christmas, Dickens Mayor, Scrooge, the Town Crier and the beloved chimney sweeps. Featuring concerts, train display, magic shows, theater, Festival of Trees, ice skating and much more with a Grand East Main Street opening parade on Dec. 4 at 11 a.m. and a Pickwick’s Puppet closing parade on Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. Most attractions are free of charge, so everyone – from the very young to the young at heart can join in the fun. Visit www.dickens.portjeff.com for schedule of events.

Country Parlor Holiday Show

Join Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Country Parlor Holiday Folk Art & Gift Show today and Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held in the historic Naugles Barn, all items are handmade by local artisans and craftspeople including rustic Santas and tree ornaments, holiday home decor and gifts, baskets, jewelry and fine gifts including handmade pottery pieces, plus stocking stuffers for everyone on your list including local jams and preserves, hand made all-natural soaps and so much more. For more information, call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.

Smithtown Craft & Gift Fair

Smithtown East High School, 1 School St.. St. James presents its 8th annual Smithtown Craft & Gift Fair today and Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Over 75 vendors present predominantly hand crafted work with a few select gift items.  Expect to see some exquisite jewelry, (artisanal, vintage and new), decorative wreaths, homemade candies, organic soaps, Xmas décor and much more during this indoor event. Refreshments served by the Smithtown College Scholarship Committee. Call 846-1459.

The Holiday Market

The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket and Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket and WUSB continue with The Holiday Market, a series of outdoor holiday shopping events, today, Dec. 11 and 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature over 40 vendors offering original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, pottery, woodwork, glassware, artisan created jewelry, handmade crafts, decorations, and clothing along with music, children’s activities and food trucks. Call 751-3730 or 751-2676.

Open House at the Atelier

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 15, St. James invites the community to an Open House from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy live instructor demos, raffled art baskets, art books for sale, tour of studios and light refreshments. Call 250-9009.

Candlelight House Tour

The Three Village Historical Society presents its 42nd annual Candlelight House Tour, Along the Brook: The Story of Stony Brook, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tour four private homes and the historic All Souls Church, Reboli Center and Stony Brook Chapel. Each location will be presented in full holiday decor with attention to architectural features and historic details. Tickets are $55 per person. To order, call 751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.

Holiday Gift & Toy Drive-Thru

The St. James Fire Department Engine Company No. 1 will hold its 2nd annual St. James Community Holiday Gift & Toy Drive-Thru at Gyrodyne/Flowerfield in St. James from noon to 4 p.m.  Visitors will enter via the entrance on Route 25A.  Donations of an unwrapped toy or gift card are requested. Live holiday music will be performed by John Zollo, lead singer of The Dedications, as well as performances by the Smithtown High School East Chamber Choir. Santa will make an appearance on a Fire Engine with a mailbox handy for children to drop off their letters. All donations will be distributed by the Smithtown Township Emergency Food Pantry to families and children in the community. Rain date is Dec. 5. Have a question? Email [email protected].

St. Nicholas Bazaar

Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport will host a St. Nicholas Bazaar from 1 to 5 p.m. The outdoor event will feature Christmas wreaths, homemade cookies, chili and cornbread, Christmas Carols and more. Call 261-7670.

Victorian Christmas Tea

First Presbyterian Church, 497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn will host a Victorian Christmas Tea from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy scones, finger sandwiches and desserts for $25. Formal attire (hats and gloves) optional. Preregistration required by calling 261-2150.

Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite

Join The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook from 2 to 4 p.m. as the 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band performs Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite. Blues and jazz singer Allan Harris joins the band for other holiday music.  Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children. To order, call 751-1895 or visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Ice Skating in Smithtown

Do you like to ice skate? The Smithtown Chamber of Commerce set up an ice skating rink on Main Street in the Fresh Market/LA Fitness Center from 2 to 7 p.m. with photos with Santa, food trucks and holiday carolers. Half hour skate time is $15 adults, $10 children under 12 by reservation only at www.smithtownchamber.com.

Holiday Party for Wildlife

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents a Holiday Party for Wildlife and Craft Night Market from 3 to 9 p.m. The outdoor event will feature local handmade craft and artist vendors, short animal presentations, photo opportunities and story times for kids. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Rain date Dec. 5. Free but donations welcome. Call 979-6344.

Heritage Country Christmas

The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown presents a Heritage Country Christmas from 4 to 7 p.m. Enjoy holiday caroling, tree lighting, s’mores on a stick, a winter hay ride, holiday craft, community wreath contest and photos with Santa. Rain date is Dec. 5. Tickets are $5 per person through Eventbrite. Call 265-6768 for additional information.

Art Show fundraiser

Studio 268, 268 Main St. Setauket invites the community to an opening  reception for its latest art show featuring a collection of fine art by local artists (available for purchase) from 4 to 7 p.m. The show will also be on view Dec. 5, 12 and 19 from noon to 5 p.m. Proceeds from an art raffle and a percentage from art sales will be donated to The Three Village Central School District food pantries.

Drive-Thru Santa

The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce hosts a Drive-Thru Santa event at the chamber car (corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway) from 6 to 8 p.m. Come visit Santa while in the comforts of your car! Great photo op from SnapShot LI. Enjoy Holiday Light displays and bring a Toy or Food to support the local drives. Don’t forget your Letter to Santa for the special North Pole Mailbox. Free admission. Call 821-1313.

Drive-Thru Live Nativity

Stony Brook Christian Assembly, 400 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket hosts a Drive-Thru Live Nativity today, Dec. 5, 10 and 11 from 6 to 9 p.m. See the Christmas story come to life with costumed characters and live animals. Free. Call 689-1127.

Sunday Dec. 5

Charles Dickens Festival

See Dec. 4 listing.

Country Parlor Holiday Show

See Dec. 4 listing.

Smithtown Craft & Gift Fair 

See Dec. 4 listing.

Drive-Thru Live Nativity 

See Dec. 4 listing.

Christmas Craft Fair

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 800 Portion Road, Lake Ronkonkoma presents its annual Christmas Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in its Parish Hall with crafts, gifts, Christmas items, raffles and refreshments. Come start your Christmas shopping! Call 737-4388.

Bagels and Baseball

Cardboard Memories, 6401 Jericho Turnpike, Commack hosts Bagels and Baseball from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Talk hot stove baseball with four authors who combined have published 20 baseball books. Learn the stories behind the stories in A.J. Carter, Mark Rosenman, Erik Sherman and Brett Topel’s works, hear what they have in the pipeline and chew the fat, as well as a bagel or two, over what the Mets and Yankees have and have not been doing in this off-season. The authors will have books available for purchase and signing. Free. For more information, call 462-1919.

Snowflake Craft Fair

Christ Lutheran Church, 189 Burr Road, E. Northport will host its 41st annual Snowflake Craft Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with handmade crafts by church members, bake shop, lunch and decorated fresh wreaths. Call 499-4655.

PUPPETS ON PARADE
The Legends & Spies Puppet Procession is back for the 42nd annual Holiday Festival at the Stony Brook Village Center on Dec. 5. File photo

Stony Brook Holiday Festival

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization presents its 42nd annual Holiday Festival at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook from noon to 6 p.m. Vote for your favorite tree in the 42nd Annual Holiday Tree Competition, enjoy a Legends & Spies Puppet Procession and Holiday Train display at Wiggs Opticians, carolers, live music and visit from Santa before the Holiday Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. on the Village Green. Call 751-2244.

Holiday concert

The Silver Chords will give a free concert, Hope for the Holidays, at St. James Lutheran Church, 230 2nd Ave., St. James at 2 p.m. The afternoon will feature “Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” “Beethoven’s Ode To Joy”, “Beautiful City” and more with gift basket raffles. Call 379-7066.

Motown Christmas

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station presents an online concert titled Motown Christmas at 2 p.m. Enjoy renditions of holiday hits by Smokey Robinson, The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5 performance by Rhonda Denet. To register, visit www.cplib.org or call 928-1212, option 3.

Monday Dec. 6

Virtual Movie Trivia Night 

Do you know a lot about movies? Well here’s your chance to prove it! Join the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington for a virtual Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Hosted by Dan French, the winning team will get up to four CAC Gift Cards (1 per team member) and bragging rights. Tickets are $10 per team, $7 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org to register. Questions? Email [email protected].

Tuesday Dec. 7

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday Dec. 8

Author Talk with Erica Cirino

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport hosts a lecture and book signing with author Erica Cirino at 7 p.m. Cirino will discuss her new book, Thicker Than Water: The Quest for Solutions to the Plastic Crisis. $10 per person. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Thursday Dec. 9

Whaling Museum lecture

The Whaling Museum. 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a virtual lecture titled Christmas on a Whaleship – Or Not! At 7 p.m. How did whalers historically celebrate Christmas at sea – if at all? Find out what an 19th century American whaler could expect while away from home in this online presentation with a variety of quotes, images, and diary entries. Free; donations of $10 appreciated. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Film

‘Leave it to the Beavers’

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for a screening of Nature’s Leave it to the Beavers at the Smithtown Library Main Branch, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown on Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. Discover why this curious animal is so important to our landscapes and ecosystems. Followed by a discussion. Free. To register, call 766-3075.

Theater

‘White Christmas’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its MainStage season  with White Christmas from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2, 2022. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming adaptation follows vaudeville stars and veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they head to Vermont to pursue romance with a duo of beautiful singing sisters. This family classic features beloved songs by Irving Berlin including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is The Ocean” and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Tickets range from $75 to $80 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘A Christmas Carol’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for the 37th annual production of A Christmas Carol from Nov. 13 to Dec. 26. Celebrate the season with Long Island’s own holiday tradition and broadwayworld.com winner for Best Play. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. A complimentary sensory sensitive abridged performance will be held on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. $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. 

‘Elf the Musical’

The Argyle Theater, 34 Main St., Babylon presents Elf the Musical through Jan. 2. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Tickets are priced from $40 to $79. Use Code: TIMES for $10 OFF* For more information, call 230-3500 or visit www.argyletheatre.com.

Vendors wanted

» Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its Holiday Market Fairs on Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. $75 for one market, $125 for two, $150 for three and $200 for four. To reserve a booth, visit www.gallerynorth.org or call 631-751-2676.

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Emily LaRosa greets a lacrosse player. Photo by Rita J. Egan

On the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend, Three Village community members and athletes from surrounding areas came together to remember a former Ward Melville High School athlete and raise funds for his namesake scholarship.

JoJo LaRosa’s mom, second from left, is joined by friend Kathy Whelan, sister Rose Mastrantoni and friend and one of the jamboree organizers Dawn Gibbons. Photo by Rita J. Egan

The inaugural JoJo Strong Jamboree took place Nov. 27 on three of the WMHS fields with more than 230 lacrosse players from 12 teams competing, some from areas outside of the Three Village community such as Smithtown and Adelphi alumni.

The inaugural champions, the Ward Melville women’s team comprised of Team Hannah/Team Madison, beat the Adelphi women’s team, 7-6, in an incredible come from behind victory, including a last second save by Samantha Tarpey. The Adelphi men’s team beat the Ward Melville 2015/16 team.

The event was held in memory of Joseph “JoJo” LaRosa who graduated from WMHS in 2017 and was part of the state champion lacrosse team that same year. This past August, LaRosa passed away during surgery. He went in for a procedure that would have involved a full abdominal transplant due to complications caused by radiation treatment he had received during his battle with the cancer desmoplastic small round cell tumor sarcoma. The Stony Brook resident had beaten the cancer that started soon after he graduated from WMHS.

David Ratner, one of the event organizers, said while a count has not yet been finalized, thousands of dollars were raised for the Joseph “JoJo” LaRosa Memorial Scholarship Foundation at the first annual event. The goal of the jamboree and scholarship is to assist scholar-athletes for years to come, according to Ratner.

The Nov. 27 event included clinics for young athletes, Ward Melville alumni competing against teams from Adelphi University and Smithtown, an Old Skool men’s tournament and fastest shot competition. After the games on Nov. 27, an awards ceremony was held at The Bench Bar & Grill in Stony Brook.

The hope is for the lacrosse jamboree to become an annual event and next year’s is scheduled for Nov. 26, according to Ratner.

LaRosa’s mother Gina Mastrantoni described the event as “spectacular.”

“It was an amazing show of love, and it was humbling,” the mother said. “It was bittersweet. I didn’t really have much of a dry eye.”

She added her son is her hero and was a warrior.

“He had the highest level of determination, grit, perseverance,” the mother said.

Players hit the field during the JoJo Strong Jamboree. Photo by Rita J. Egan

Mastrantoni attended the event with her daughter Emily, who played on traveling lacrosse teams, husband Bruce Latham, sister Rose Mastrantoni, best friend Dawn Gibbons, who was a jamboree organizer, as well as other friends and family members.

Throughout the day, she saw friends of LaRosa’s that he made during his semester at Adelphi studying and playing lacrosse, and those he had been friends with since his early days in the Three Village school district. Mastrantoni said a group of about a dozen-and-a-half kids from the neighborhood was called the Sluggers.

Among those Sluggers was Dylan Maggio, who played lacrosse for a few years. While Maggio stopped playing in ninth grade, he said on Saturday he played with the 2017 team and even scored a goal.

Maggio described the day as well organized with everyone excited to play. He was impressed with the number of people who attended and said they made the day a rewarding experience.

“We were just surprised with how many people have come to know JoJo where they wouldn’t have before, and how many people he has inspired just by persevering through the things that he was forced to confront,” he said.

LaRosa’s father Joseph LaRosa attended with his wife Gianna and their 12-year-old son James. The younger LaRosa was excited to play with members of the 2017 WMHS team who played with his brother. During the jamboree, Emily LaRosa also played as well as some of JoJo LaRosa’s cousins.

“It was great to see everybody come out and see how many people JoJo touched through his journey and what he has been through,” Joseph LaRosa said.

The father said the organizers “put their hearts and souls into planning this jamboree.”

Dave Purdy, one of the organizers who coached JoJo LaRosa in youth lacrosse for a few years, was on hand Nov. 27 and played in the Old Skool game. He described the lacrosse community as a close-knit one. He added that while the Ward Melville alum only played at Adelphi for a semester due to cancer, the team and coaches always made him feel as if he was a part of them by having him sit on the sidelines with the team during games and fundraising so he can join them on a trip to Tampa, Florida. So, it was no surprise to organizers that former lacrosse players from Adelphi took part in the jamboree.

“It was just a great day to remember JoJo for the game that he loved so much, and see it all come together,” Purdy said.

He added, “Just seeing old friends down there, community members who used to go to travel tournaments together and maybe had not kept in as close contact, they get to see each other down there at Ward Melville High School and The Bench afterward.”

At The Bench at the end of the day, Maggio’s band SWIM played for the attendees. LaRosa’s friend sang the song “Everybody” by rapper Mac Miller. The song is a remake of Love’s “Everybody’s Gotta Live.” LaRosa told Maggio he liked the song during a trip to  Vermont with friends. It was just the two of them in the car at the time.

“It just reminds me of that drive with him,” Maggio said. “It just reminds me of hanging out with him one-on-one. I really cherished those times.”

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Attendees wait for the lighting of the 20-foot menorah at Village Chabad. Photo by Rita J. Egan
Rabbi Motti Grossbaum addresses attendees at the menorah lighting. Photo by Rita J. Egan
Children wait for the dropping of chocolate gelt at the Village Chabad menorah lighting. Photo by Rita J. Egan
Clovis Outdoor Service’s bucket truck was a big help in lighting the 20-foot menorah. Photo by Rita J. Egan

On Sunday, Nov. 28, members of the Village Chabad kicked off the Festival of Lights with a joyous celebration.

Rabbi Motti Grossbaum said more than 250 attendees attended the menorah lighting on the first night of Hanukkah at the Village Chabad’s center in East Setauket. In addition to lighting the first candle of the 20-foot menorah with help from landscaping company Clovis Outdoor Service’s  bucket truck, there was a juggling show by Jester Jim, a chocolate gelt drop as well as latkes, doughnuts and hot chocolate being served.

Village Chabad has erected public menorahs in the Three Village community for 35 years, including at the Smith Haven Mall and on the lawn of Stony Brookside Bed & Bike Inn, as well as setting up menorahs in local supermarkets and additional public intersections in the area, according to Grossbaum.

At the event, the rabbi encouraged everyone to go home and light their own menorah.

“We should put our menorahs by the window, and if people ask you, say, ‘Yes, I am Jewish, and tonight we are celebrating Hanukkah. I would love to tell you more about it. I would love to give you a latke or a doughnut, and Hanukkah is so much fun,’” he said. “So, tonight is about our rededication. It’s about our education and our commitment to our Jewish pride tonight, for the next eight nights and throughout the year.” 

Last year the Chabad was unable to hold a formal gathering due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“It was incredibly encouraging and inspiring to come together safely as a community, young and old, after the challenging time we’ve all been through,” Grossbaum said after the event. “It is clear that the message of Hanukkah is alive today as it ever was … that light, goodness, kindness, unity and hope will always prevail.”

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A puppet of businessman and philanthropist Ward Melville at the Stony Brook Village Holiday Festival's Legends & Spies Puppets Processional. Photo by Heidi Sutton

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO)’s 42nd Annual Holiday Festival will return on Sunday, December 5th from noon to 6 p.m. at the  Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook with Santa, performances, displays, activities and more. This is an entirely free event.

Photo from WMHO

The festival will feature music from WALK 97.5 throughout the day, Wiggs Optician’s Holiday Train Display, carolers, a performance from Roseland Dance Studio and a petting zoo. The Bethel AME Choir will be returning to help brighten spirits with a performance.

Children can write letters to Santa and mail them at the Stony Brook Post Office in the red “Mail for Santa” mailbox as soon as November 22. Letters can be mailed to Santa through the season.

WMHO’s Youth Corps Santa Fund fundraiser will include a scavenger hunt with the chance to win Stony Brook Village Center gift certificates, Discovery Cruise tickets and other prizes.  All proceeds will be donated to Long Island Adolescent to benefit children in need over the holidays.

Photo from WMHO

While the festivities are in full swing, festival goers can participate in the Holiday Tree Festival by voting for their favorite trees as they will be decorated that day. Ballots can be found in all establishments in Stony Brook Village. Voting will take place from December 5 to December 20.

At 5:30pm, Santa will arrive on a holiday float, and with some children from the community, will light  the holiday tree on the Village Green.

The sponsors of the 42nd Annual Holiday Festival and the 42nd Annual Holiday Tree Competition are Roosevelt Investments, Damianos Realty Group, GSE Dynamics, LIDL, Central Semiconductor Corp., The Suffolk Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy and Armor Corporation.

For more information about the Holiday Festival, the WMHO Youth Corps Santa Fund or the WMHO, call (631) 751-2244.

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Founded in 1939, WMHO is a not-for-profit corporation that develops and fosters community enrichment through cultural and educational experiences.  WMHO accomplishes this by enhancing and interpreting its historic and environmentally sensitive properties and by utilizing state-of-the-art technology. For more information, please visit www.wmho.org  

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The St. James Fire Department Engine Company No. 1 will hold its 2nd annual St. James Community Holiday Gift & Toy Drive-Thru on Saturday, December 4 at Gyrodyne/Flowerfield in St. James from noon to 4 p.m.  Visitors will enter via the entrance on Route 25A.  Donations of an unwrapped toy or gift card are requested.

This year, multiple St. James organizations are collaborating on the event. The organizations are as follows:

St. James Fire Department Engine Co. 1

Celebrate St. James

Troop 7 Boy Scouts

Smithtown High School East Leadership

Smithtown High School East Chamber Choir

Veterans Recovery Coalition

St. James Girl Scouts Troop

St. James Civic Association

Smithtown Food Pantry

Gyrodyne/Flowerfield

Live holiday music will be performed by John Zollo, lead singer of The Dedications, as well as performances by the Smithtown High School East Chamber Choir.

Santa will make an appearance on a Fire Engine with a mailbox handy for children to drop off their letters. All donations will be distributed by the Smithtown Township Emergency Food Pantry to families and children in the community.

Toy donations can also be dropped off at TD Bank, 621 Lake Avenue, St. James, during business hours. Gift cards can be mailed to: St. James Holiday Gift & Toy Drive, c/o Celebrate St. James, 459 Lake Avenue, St. James, NY  11780. In the event of bad weather, the event will be held on Sunday, December 5th.

For more information, call (631) 584-5799.

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Mick Moloney

Celebrate St. James welcomes award-winning musician, recording artist and author Mick Moloney to the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James  on Friday, Dec. 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. Moloney will present an informative talk titled Exploring Our Roots — Vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley on the wonderful Irish and Jewish collaborations that contribute to the history of musical theater. Donation of $25, $20 seniors. Refreshments will be served. For reservations, call 631-984-0201.

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DO YOU WANT TO BUILD A SNOWMAN? 'Frozen Jr.' is now playing at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Courtney Braun
Programs

A to Z Scavenger Hunt

The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents an A to Z Scavenger Hunt on Nov. 26 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Hunt around the hatchery and aquarium in search of a different item starting with each letter of the alphabet. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children. Call 516-692-6768.

Polar Express screening

The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce will host screenings of The Polar Express in the Chamber Train Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Fridays, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 6 p.m.; Saturdays, Nov. 27, Dec. 11 and 18 at noon, 3 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 5 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. $15 per person includes popcorn, a cookie and hot cocoa. To reserve your tickets, visit www.pjstchamber.com.

Family Wampum Workshop

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a Family Wampum Workshop on Nov. 27 at 1 p.m. and again at 2 p.m. Did you know some of the finest Wampum beads were historically created from the shells often found along Long Island’s coasts? Discover this ancient craft and learn what it continues to mean to Indigenous Long Islanders. Create a wampum-style beaded accessory of your own to keep. Recommended for ages 7+; younger with adult help. Admission plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418.

Crafternoons

Visit the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor during the month of November and December and enjoy seasonal, self-serve crafts in their workshop. Free with admission of $6 adults, $5 kids/seniors. Call 367-3418.

Backpack Adventures

Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park for a nature experiment adventure on Nov. 28 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. And everything you need will be right on your back! You’ll be loaned a backpack filled with fun, interesting experiments to complete together as you explore the park. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for #NatureEdventures. For more information, call 581-1072.

A Visit with Mailman Mark

Save the date! The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society presents A Visit with Mailman Mark on Dec. 5 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, Miller Place where Mailman Mark will send them to the North Pole. Enjoy refreshments, a vintage fire truck, crafts and story time. Each child will receive a letter from Santa delivered to their home. $12 per child. To register, mail a check to MPMSHS, P.O. Box 723, Miller Place, NY 11764. For more information, call 476-5742. 

Theater

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

The holidays have arrived at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 20 to Dec. 26 with a sensory sensitive performance on Nov. 21. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As Santa’s 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 $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Frosty’

Tis the season! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Frosty from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. 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 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Frozen Jr.’

Do you want to build a snowman? The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown will present Frozen Jr. from Nov. 20 to Jan. 17. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $25. To order, call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

 

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ITS THE HOLIDAY SEASON The 11th annual Huntington ‘Red, White & Blue’ Holiday Electric Light Parade on Nov. 27 will commence with the lighting of the 80 foot Christmas Tree on Wall Street and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Photo from Town of Huntington
Thursday 25
Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Community Dinner

Word of Truth Church, 208 Jamaica Ave., Medford will host a free Thanksgiving Community Dinner event at 1 p.m. Please call Pastor Bruce to reserve your spot at 730-2976.

Friday 26

Country Parlor Holiday Show

Join Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Country Parlor Holiday Folk Art & Gift Show today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Nov. 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again from Dec. 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held in the historic Naugles Barn, all items are handmade by local artisans and craftspeople including rustic Santas and tree ornaments, holiday home decor and gifts, baskets, jewelry and fine gifts including handmade pottery pieces, plus stocking stuffers for everyone on your list including local jams and preserves, hand made all-natural soaps and so much more. For more information, call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.

Northport Tree Lighting

The Village of Northport will hold a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Northport Village Park at the end of Main Street at 7 p.m. Enjoy caroling by the Northport Chorale, see Santa arrive by fire truck and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies. Call 754-3905.

Friday Night Face Off 

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight on the Second Stage at 9:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for audiences 16 and up, due to adult content.Tickets are $15 at the door only. Call 928-9100.

Saturday 27

Country Parlor Holiday Show

See Nov. 26 listing.

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a Seashore Circular Hike from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. During this hilly moderately paced walk through fields and woods to Caumsett’s shore, you’ll learn about geological and social factors that have influenced nature on Long Island. About a 4.5 mile walk. Bring water. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 423-1770.

JoJo Strong Jamboree

Ward Melville High School, Old Town Road, E. Setauket will host a JoJo Strong Jamboree, a 6 team Mens Lacrosse and 4 team Women’s Lacrosse Tournament featuring alumni teams from WMHS, Smithtown and Adelphi. Opening ceremony will be held 9:45 a.m. and first game starts at 10 a.m. Championship games begin at 2 p.m. for women and 2:30 p.m. for men with food trucks, concession stands and fastest shot contest. Free admission. For more information, visit www.jojojamboree.com.

Selden Craft & Gift Fair 

Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden will host an outdoor Craft & Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with over 75 vendors to kick off your holiday shopping. Process will  benefit the Middle Country Athletic Booster Club. Rain date is Nov. 28. For more information, call 846-1459.

Model Train Show

The Smithtown Historical Society presents a Model Train Show at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Operating layouts on display include Long Island HOTrack – HO Scale; Frank Kayz Trainz – Surprise and Trainville Hobby Depot – N Scale. Admission is $5 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under. Proceeds benefit the Smithtown Historical Society for the restoration of farm buildings and caring for the resident farm animals. For more information, call 524-0529.

The Holiday Market

The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket and Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket and WUSB will kick off The Holiday Market, a series of outdoor holiday shopping events, today (Small Business Saturday) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature over 40 vendors offering original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, pottery, woodwork, glassware, artisan created jewelry, handmade crafts, decorations, and clothing along with music, children’s activities and food trucks. The event will continue on Dec. 4, 11 and 18. For more information, call 751-3730 or 751-2676.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

Bright Lights, a holiday light spectacular, returns to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport tonight and every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 19 and Dec. 22 and 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy themed displays, festive food, music, Santa and Friends and holiday lights during this holiday walk. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children under 12, free for children under age 2. Order tickets online at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Huntington Holiday Parade

The Town of Huntington’s 11th annual Red, White & Blue Electric Holiday Parade will kick off at 5:30 p.m. from the Big H Shopping Center on New York Avenue and will proceed north to Main Street and then west on Main Street to West Neck Road. Visitors can then attend a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Wall Street followed by live entertainment and a visit from Santa. Call 351-3000.

Sunday 28

Country Parlor Holiday Show

See Nov. 26 listing.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

See Nov. 27 listing.

JOLLY GOOD FUN!
The annual Santa Parade returns to Port Jefferson Village on Nov. 28 at 3 p.m. File hoto by Kyle Barr

Port Jefferson Santa Parade 

Join the Village of Port Jefferson and the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce for their annual Santa Parade at 3 p.m. The parade route starts at the Port Jefferson Train Station, goes down Main Street to West Broadway and ends at Santa’s Workshop at the corner of Barnum Avenue. Come visit Santa Claus from 3:30 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 473-1414 or email [email protected].

Nesconset Holiday Lighting event

The Nesconset Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Holiday Lighting event at the Nesconset Gazebo, Nesconset at 3:30 p.m. Join them as they kick off the holiday season by lighting a Christmas Tree and Menorah, enjoy toasty refreshments & holiday music, and a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Questions? Call 672-5197.

Setauket Menorah Lighting

Village Chabad, 360 Nicolls Road, East Setauket invites the community to bring in Hanukkah at the tallest Menorah in Suffolk County at 3:30 p.m. with hot cocoa, latkes, music, a performance by Jester Jim for the kids and more. $5 per person. RSVP now at MyVillageChabad.com/NightOne.

PJS Menorah Lighting

North Shore Jewish Center and the Port Jefferson Station Terryville Chamber of Commerce will hold a Menorah Lighting at the Train Car at the corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 4 to 5 p.m. (Access is on Rose Ave. from Canal Road. Call 821-1313.

Kings Park Menorah Lighting

The Kings Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a Menorah Lighting Ceremony at Veterans Plaza, 1 Church St., Kings Park at 11 a.m. Enjoy holiday music selections followed by Rabbi Abe as he retells the story of the meaning of Hanukkah and the lighting of the Menorah. Call 269-7678.

St. James Menorah Lighting

The St. James Chamber of Commerce hosts a Menorah Lighting at 5:30 p.m. at the Triangle at Lake Avenue, Moriches Road and Route 25A; continues for eight nights. Light refreshments will be served. Call 584-8510.

Grand Menorah Car Parade

Chabad of Mid-Suffolk, 318 Veterans Memorial Highway, Commack will host a Grand Menorah Car Parade at 6 p.m. to The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills for a Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6:45 p.m. Enjoy music, a fire and juggling show, donuts, latkes and more. Free. To RSVP, call 351-8672 or visit www.TheChaiCenter.com/Chanukah.

Ronkonkoma Menorah Lighting

Join the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce and Rabbi Rosenthanl of Temple B’nai Israel of Oakdale for a Menorah Lighting at Raynor Park, 174 Ronkonkoma Ave, Ronkonkoma on Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. Call 471-0302.

Monday 29

Huntington Menorah Lighting

The Town of Huntington will host its annual Big Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 5 p.m. on Wall Street between Gerard and Main Streets at the Huntington Holiday Spectacular. Call 351-3000. 

Brookhaven Menorah Lighting

Join the Town of Brookhaven for its annual lighting of the Menorah at Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville at 6 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, hot latkes and donuts. For more information, call 451-6100

Tuesday 30

Greenlawn Menorah Lighting

Join the Greenlawn Civic Association at Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn in celebrating Hanukkah with snacks, games, music and a Community Menorah Lighting on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. Email greenlawncivic.org.

Wednesday 1

Festival of Trees

Visit the Festival of Trees, a month long extravaganza to kick off the holiday shopping season, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson today through Jan. 2 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. For more information, call 802-2160.

Smithtown Tree Lighting

The Town of Smithtown will host a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall, 99 W. Main St., Smithtown from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The holiday event will feature entertainment by local schools, balloon sculpting, music, food trucks, cookies and hot chocolate. Call 360-7512.

Thursday 2

Virtual Lunch & Learn

The Huntington Historical Society continues its virtual Lunch & Learn series with a presentation by Jeff Richman titled Building the Brooklyn Bridge at noon. The historian at Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery since 2007, Richman will discuss his fifth and latest book, Building the Brooklyn Bridge, 1869-1883: An Illustrated History with Images in 3D. Presentation will last 45 minutes with time for commentary and Q&A from participants. Suggested donation of $10. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Film

‘Stillwater’

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport continues its Cinema at the Library series with a screening of Stillwater (Rated R) starring Matt Damon on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. Followed by a discussion with Cinema Arts Centre co-director Dylan Skolnick. To register, call 261-6930.

Theater

‘White Christmas’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its MainStage season  with White Christmas from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2, 2022. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming adaptation follows vaudeville stars and veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they head to Vermont to pursue romance with a duo of beautiful singing sisters. This family classic features beloved songs by Irving Berlin including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is The Ocean” and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Tickets range from $75 to $80 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘A Christmas Carol’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for the 37th annual production of A Christmas Carol from Nov. 13 to Dec. 26. Celebrate the season with Long Island’s own holiday tradition and broadwayworld.com winner for Best Play. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. A complimentary sensory sensitive abridged performance will be held on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. $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. 

‘Elf the Musical’

The Argyle Theater, 34 Main St., Babylon presents Elf the Musical through Jan. 2. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Tickets are priced from $40 to $79. Use Code: TIMES for $10 OFF* For more information, call 230-3500 or visit www.argyletheatre.com.

Vendors wanted

» Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its Holiday Market Fairs on Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. $75 for one market, $125 for two, $150 for three and $200 for four. To reserve a booth, visit www.gallerynorth.org or call 631-751-2676.

» Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown seeks exhibitors for its Holiday Party for Wildlife and Craft Market on Dec. 4 from 3 to 9 p.m. Looking for craft and food vendors. Spaces are $60 each. Call 631-979-6344 or email [email protected].

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Photo from The Jazz Loft

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the following events in December:

Wed. 12/1         Young at Heart: It’s the Holidays                                                  1 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio will perform holiday music at the themed monthly series designed for those who

like their jazz in the afternoon.

Tickets: $10

Wed. 12/1.          Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                                 7 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5

Thurs. 12/2        Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite & Holiday Music                      7 PM 12/2, 12/3, 12/4

Fri.     12/3                                                                                                                            & 2 PM  12/4

Sat.     12/4    

The 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band performs Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite.  Allan Harris, a soulful jazz vocalist, recording artist and guitarist joins the Band for holiday music.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Monday 12/6     Stony Brook University Blowage Big Band        7 PM
The SBU jazz band performs under the direction of trombonist Ray Anderson.
Tickets: $10 Free for SBU Staff and Students

Tues. 12/7           Nikhil Bartolomeo, Antonio Ciacca   DMA Recitals                                                   7 PM

The Jazz Loft will host two Doctor Of Music recitals. Nikhil Bartolomeo is a clarinetist and saxophonist. He will perform works of Barber, Blake, Bunch, D’Rivera and Smith.

The Antonio Ciacca Quartet features DMA student Antonio Ciacca on piano, Andy Farber on tenor sax, Jennifer Vincent on bass and Michele Carletti on drums.

Nikhil and Antonio are students in the Stony Brook University Jazz Studies Department.

Tickets are $10 and admission is free for SBU students and staff

Wed. 12/8          Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                                   7 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8PM.

Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5

Monday 12/13   Stony Brook Graduate Jazz Combos Concert   7 PM
Graduate students in music department of SBU perform in this jazz combos concert.
Tickets: $10   Free for SBU Staff and Students

Wed. 12/15.        Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                                   7 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5

Thurs. 12/16       Bad Little Big Band Holiday Show                                                 7 PM

The 12 member Bad Little Big Band led by pianist Rich Iacona will perform music of the season. Vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Friday 12/17        Ray Anderson’s Seasonal Solstice Party                                       7 PM

Acclaimed trombonist Ray Anderson is known to push the limits of his instrument. His performances are always spirited and fun.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Sat.  12/18          Interplay Jazz Orchestra’s Family Show                                         1PM

The 17 member Interplay Jazz Orchestra performs a family friendly afternoon holiday show.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Sat.  12/18           Tom Manuel’s Eggnog Romp                                                          6 PM

Cornetist and Jazz Loft founder, Tom Manuel leads his ensemble of musicians in performing music of the season.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Wed. 12/22        Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                                     7 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5

Thurs. 12/23      Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite & Holiday Music.                        7 PM

The 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band performs Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite. Grammy winning vocalist Nicole Zuraitis joins the band for holiday music.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

Wed. 12/29       Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                                      7 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5

For tickets, call 751-1895 or visit www,thejazzloft.org.

Please note: The Jazz Loft will be closed in January to line up the great music it will be presenting in 2022.

Have a happy and safe holiday season and listen to a lot of live music!

 

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Local elected officials join WMHO chairman and president, Richard Rugen and Gloria Rocchio and the Minuses' daughter Cynthia Ann Murphy at the ribbon cutting. Photo by Rita J. Egan

A near hurricane couldn’t keep T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park from being a focal point of Stony Brook village.

Photo by Rita J. Egan

After Tropical Storm Isaias ripped through Long Island in August of 2020, the park, which runs adjacent to Avalon Nature Preserve, needed several repairs. The storm knocked down more than a dozen trees and destroyed the park’s braille engraved handrails, the borders maintaining the park’s gardens, the walkways along the pond and more.

At a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 18, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization presented the first phase of rehabilitation, which included new pathways and memorial stones. The second phase will include the repairing of the braille handrails and sensory gardens on the north side of the 1-acre park by Harbor Road.

At the dedication, Richard Rugen, WMHO chairman and a retired chiropractor, remembered Minuse who was one of his first patients. Minuse was the right-hand man of philanthropist Ward Melville when the village was being built and in the early days of Stony Brook Community Fund, which is now known as WMHO. Rugen described Minuse as “a straight-arrow guy.”

He also remembered Minuse’s wife, Elinore, who he described as having perfect posture and with a crown of white hair. He added she was a lady who was equally comfortable arguing a bill with the local garbage carter and could have high tea with the queen.

He said he believed the Minuses would be pleased with the renovated park: “In my heart, I know if they had the capacity to look down on us today, they would both be happy and proud to see the rededication of the T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park in his honor.”

Photo by Rita J. Egan

Rugen added that WMHO was grateful for the residents and businesses that contributed to the fundraiser to restore the park, which was originally dedicated to Minuse Dec. 6, 1981.

Gloria Rocchio, WMHO president, said soon after she and her husband moved to Stony Brook, more than 40 years ago, Minuse announced he was retiring, and she interviewed for his job. She was one out of six or seven interviewees. Rocchio added that the board voted unanimously to hire her. Minuse stayed on as a consultant for a year and to help guide Rocchio through the various responsibilities of running the organization.

“I’ll never forget that man,” she said.

Rocchio added that recently WMHO staff began scanning documents, which will soon be on the organization’s website, and have learned more about Minuse.

Joining the WMHO trustees for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were state Sen. Mario Mattera (R-St. James), state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (D-Setauket), Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine (R), Head of the Harbor Mayor Douglas Dahlgard and Cynthia Ann Murphy, the Minuses’ daughter, and her family.

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