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Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon
Scene from the Wading River Elementary School Holiday Craft Fair. Photo by Bill Landon

By Bill Landon

The 2nd annual Holiday Craft Fair at Wading River Elementary School took place Saturday, Nov. 16. The event was hosted by Wildcats Helping the Arts and Music (WHAM), a fundraising event featuring local vendors, crafts, food items, snacks and raffles for a day of family fun.

WHAM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit booster club supporting fine and performing arts in the Shoreham-Wading River Central School District. The organization, comprising parents and students, in collaboration with teachers and administrators, is dedicated to fostering and enhancing music, as well as visual and performing arts programs for students in grades K-12.

“This is a true community event with our PTA’s involvement. We have community members coming to shop from local, neighborhood vendors,” said event organizer Colette Grosso. “It brings people together and it helps support our booster club.”

For more information on WHAM, visit swrwham.org.

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The cast of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Matthew Eby (Charlie Bucket) and Sarah Colt (Mrs. Bucket)
Matthew Eby (Charlie Bucket). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
From left, Steven Bidwell (Ensemble), Caroline Eby (Ensemble), Zoe Gillis (Ensemble), Howard Pinhasik (Grandpa Joe), Matthew Eby (Charlie Bucket), and Sarah Colt (Mrs. Bucket). Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Sarah Colt (Mrs. Bucket), Matthew Eby (Charlie Bucket), and Howard Pinhasik (Grandpa Joe). Photo from The John W, Engeman Theater
Matthew Eby (Charlie Bucket) and Cooper Grodin (Willy Wonka)

By Julianne Mosher

Oompa Loompa doopity-doo, here is another theater review for you.

The Engeman Theater’s latest production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is as sweet as candy and will have you itching for more sugar by the end of it. 

Directed by Drew Humphrey and choreographed by Mandy Modic, the show has similarities between the other Wonka films, but this is entirely its own. 

We meet Willy Wonka (Cooper Grodin) who discloses to the audience that he is looking for someone to take over his candy factory. He’s going to hold a genius marketing campaign of placing five Golden Tickets in his famous Wonka bars with a grand prize of visiting the factory, while also working incognito as a candy store salesman, watching the winners revealed on television one by one. 

At his store, Wonka meets Charlie Bucket (Matthew Eby), a young boy with a big imagination and very little money. Coming from poverty, he lives in a shack with his single mother (Sarah Colt), and his four grandparents (Steven Bidwell, Caroline Eby, Zoe Gillis and Howard Pinhasik) who all sleep in one bed and haven’t emerged from it in decades.

Grandpa Joe (Pinhasik), who is also Charlie’s best friend, used to work at the factory many years ago. He instilled his love for chocolate and fills the young boy’s head with stories from the good old days. But because of their lack of wealth, Charlie gets just one chocolate bar a year for his birthday. 

Wonka has lived in recluse for many years after a spy tried to steal his recipes, but the campaign becomes an international hit with five children finding the tickets: Augustus Gloop (Oliver Cirelli and Elliot Torbenson), Veruca Salt (London DelVecchio and Elyana Faith Randolph), Violet Beauregarde (Briahna Gribben and Satya Mae Williams), Mike Teavee (Benjamin Corso and Luca Silva) and Charlie. 

Spoiled rotten and mean to their parents, Augustus, Veruca, Violet and Mike have far different personalities from the last winner, Charlie, who lucked out finding a candy bar with his last remaining pennies after his birthday bar had no winning ticket.

The five kids and their parents, Mrs. Gloop (Caitlin Burke), Mr. Salt (James Channing), Mr. Beauregarde (Rickens Anantua) and Mrs. Teavee (Molly Samson) along with Grandpa Joe, enter the factory and witness all the magic Wonka has created over the years. Greed and the lack of listening skills from the kids, however, results in some pretty bad outcomes which are narrated by the cleverly created Oompa Loompas (small fabric marionettes attached to the dancers of the ensemble). 

A more modern take on the original 1971 film and less creepy than the Tim Burton version from the early 2000s, the Engeman’s version is spectacularly done with a dynamic set, innovative props and gorgeous costumes for the kids and adults, alike. They do a great job transforming the stage into Wonka’s factory from the slums of the Bucket’s household with ease and inside the factory itself is a magical interpretation of what a candy factory ought to be. 

You’ll be able to sing along to some well-known favorites like “The Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination,” with newer bops like “More of Him to Love” (to introduce Augustus), “When Veruca Says” (to introduce Veruca), “The Queen of Pop” (to introduce Violet) and “Little Man of Mine” (for Mike’s character). The second half of the show has the ensemble of Oompa Loompas singing farewell jingles when the kids are taken away to their individual demises. 

The talent from not just the adult ensemble but the child cast is excellently done and each actor shines on stage.

Perfect for audiences of all ages, the theater has also created specialty cocktails (for the grownups) made of sweet syrups and candy while also selling Wonka chocolate bars with the chance to win a real Golden Ticket inside with various prizes including season tickets to the theater. 

You’re sure to get a sugar high from this show, where dreams and chocolate collide. 

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main Street, Northport presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory through Dec. 29. The season continues with Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2 and Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. 

For more information or to order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

See a sneak preview of the show here.

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Northport Pipe & Drums were on hand to perform a rendition of ‘Amazing Grace.’ Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from the 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk (VNSHS) hosted its 34th annual Hospice Trees of Light ceremony on Nov. 17, honoring the memories of loved ones lost in the past year.

The event, held at the VNSHS headquarters in Northport, drew community members for an evening of reflection, music and remembrance. Silvia Cota, CEO of VNSHS, addressed the audience, emphasizing that hospice care is about more than medical support.

“It’s about compassion, dignity and the deep connection we share with those nearing the end of their life,” Cota said.

The Northport Pipe and Drum Band performed “Amazing Grace” as hospice volunteers read more than 470 names of individuals honored during the ceremony.

“This was an evening of celebration, joy and remembrance,” said Connie Alexander, director of patient services.

Bonnie Gruber, hospice support services coordinator, described hospice as “a program for those who have a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or fewer,” with the goal of meeting the physical and emotional needs of patients and their families. VNSHS provides bereavement services for the patients families, as well, for up to 13 months after a loved one’s death. Gruber added that preparing for the first holiday season without a loved one can be especially difficult, and that is precisely why VNHS provides events like this during this time of year.

Many attendees spoke of the comfort this tree-lighting ceremony provided. Mary Slappay of Deer Park attended the night for the first time to honor her husband of 35 years. 

“The Visiting Nurse Service made the last 24 hours of his life comfortable and peaceful and gave me the tools to cope with his death,” Slappay said.

For others, this was not their first visit to the ceremony. A Kings Park resident. Janice Slott, has attended the event for two years. In 2023, she honored her son Greg Sill, a Smithtown history teacher who died unexpectedly, and this year returned to honor her husband of 53 years.

“I promised myself I was going to come and honor him, and wasn’t going to cry,” Slott said.

Father Edward Sheridan, pastor of St. Anthony of Padua in Northport and St. Francis of Assisi in Greenlawn, gave the invocation, calling for unity in prayer. “No matter what our faith is, we pray for those souls who have gone before us to a place of light, happiness and peace,” Sheridan said.

Rabbi Marcey Wagner, who delivered the benediction, spoke about finding hope amid darkness. “Times of darkness can suddenly lead to rebirth when the light of the beautifully lit trees shines through,” Wagner said.

“This time of remembrance is an opportunity to celebrate their lives, the lessons they taught us and the legacies they left in our hearts,” Alexander concluded.

For more information about the Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk visit visitingnurseservice.org.

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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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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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Stuffin’ Muffins

Food is foremost on the minds of Thanksgiving guests. While food is a big deal on just about every holiday, the meal really takes center stage on Thanksgiving. Although turkey can be a delicious main course, many Thanksgiving diners might admit they anticipate the side dishes more than the turkey. Potatoes, soups, salads and dinner rolls are all competing for space on the Thanksgiving table and can be equally tasty. However, perhaps no side dish is more synonymous with Thanksgiving than stuffing.

Though stuffing is sometimes cooked inside the turkey, others prefer to prepare it in a casserole dish. There’s no shortage of ways to prepare stuffing, and adventurous types might enjoy this recipe for “Stuffin’ Muffins” courtesy of “Lord Honey Traditional Southern Recipes With a Country Bling Twist” (Pelican Publishing) by Chef Jason Smith. In this recipe, stuffing is baked in muffin tins for the perfect portion you can sink your teeth right into.

Stuffin’ Muffins

YIELD: Makes 1 dozen

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound breakfast sausage

2 medium onions, diced

2 cups diced fresh baby portobello mushrooms

1⁄2 cup butter

8 cups crumbled cornbread

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon dried rubbed sage

1 teaspoon onion powder

1⁄2 cup shaved or grated parmesan cheese

2 eggs

1 ⁄4 cups chicken or veggie broth or stock

DIRECTIONS: 

Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter a 12-hole muffin tin. In a large skillet, crumble the sausage and cook until halfway done. Add the onions, mushrooms and butter. Cook until tender. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and the sausage mixture. Add salt and pepper. Add the sage, onion powder, parmesan cheese, eggs, and broth. Mix with hands until all ingredients are moist but hold together. Using a 3-ounce ice cream scoop, place 12 balls into the prepared muffin tin and pat tops flat. Bake for 30 minutes.

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Photo courtesy Long Island Cares

Long Island Cares, PSEG Long Island and the Suffolk County Veteran Service Agency are teaming up to make Thanksgiving a bit more special for Suffolk County veterans.

On Thursday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Suffolk County veterans can claim a free turkey and Thanksgiving basket at a Drive Through event scheduled at the H. Lee Dennison Building, at 100 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge.

Veterans must show identification confirming their Veteran status & Suffolk County residency. Pre-Registration is required by clicking here.

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METRO photo

Although presents garner most of the fanfare during the holiday season, there is no denying that food and entertaining also figure prominently this time of year. Delish magazine reports that Christmas food consumption ranks third, behind Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday, among Americans, and that a single Christmas meal can weigh in at 3,000 calories, not factoring in any other food consumed that day.

No one wants to feel held back while having fun with family and friends, but smart food choices can mean healthier living during this season of festivities. Dish up these alternatives when holiday entertaining.

• Lean on leaner cuts of meat. A strong body is built on protein, and holiday hosts often make a meat or poultry dish the star of the holiday dinner table. When selecting holiday fare, choose leaner options such as “round” or “loin” roasts; otherwise, select white-fleshed fish and skinless poultry in lieu of other options.

• Use broths instead of creams. Soups and gravies are popular this time of year, and both can be made healthier by opting for stock or broth bases over more fattening milks or creams when creating these recipes.

• Create a one-crust pie. Pie is one of the more popular holiday desserts, and plenty of the calories come from a rich, buttery crust. Lighten up by serving a one-crust pie, such as pumpkin or sweet potato. Fruit-based pies like apple or blueberry also can be made with one crust. Simply top the fruit with a light crumb coating.

• Find ways to incorporate vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients. Many also are high in fiber, so they can help people avoid overeating. According to dietary experts from the American Heart Association, people should aim for four to five servings of vegetables each day. When making a plate, fill half of the plate with vegetables. Enhance dishes like lasagna or other pastas with fresh vegetables as well. See recipe below.

3. Raise the heat to get rid of any liquid that remains. Drizzle in the lemon juice and serve hot. PC226038

• Skip the fried bird. Although deep-frying a turkey can reduce cooking time, frying historically is not the best cooking method for those who are making health-conscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use fresh herbs and seasonings instead of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well.

• Skip the cocktails. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that classic cocktails with little to no added sugar typically fall into the 150- to 200-calorie range, while others can be about 200 to 300 calories each. Many people will want to save those extra calories for dessert or another indulgent dish rather than drinking them away. If you want to simulate a cocktail, make a spritzer with sparkling water and unsweetened cranberry juice.

Broccoli with Five Spices

YIELD: Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons sunflower oil

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds

1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds

1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon black onion seeds (kalonji)

11/4 pounds broccoli, cut into florets

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt to taste

1 teaspoon lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the oil and add all the spice seeds.

2. As they pop and darken, add the broccoli, turmeric, and chili powder, and salt. Mix well and pour in a few tablespoons of water. Bring to a sizzle, then reduce the heat and cook until the broccoli is tender but still holds its shape.

Celebrants can make some smart choices in the foods and beverages they eat to enjoy a healthier holiday season this November and December.

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Photo courtesy of WMHO

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the return of its 45th Annual Holiday Tree Competition to Stony Brook Village. 

This festive event invites community members, organizations, and businesses to showcase their creativity by decorating one of 40 premium balsam trees, which will line the walkways of the open-air Stony Brook Village Center.

The decorated trees will be on display from December 4 through January 2, creating a holiday atmosphere for all to enjoy. The public is invited to view the trees and cast their votes for their favorite from Wednesday, December 4 to Friday, December 20. The tree with the most votes will win a $150 gift certificate to be redeemed at any of Stony Brook Village’s shops and restaurants.

Due to the limited number of trees, early registration is encouraged. Registration forms can be picked up at any of the shops in Stony Brook Village or downloaded from the Events section on the Stony Brook Village Center website. Completed forms, along with a $47 entry fee, should be returned by Wednesday, November 25 to Ward Melville Heritage Organization – P.O. Box 572, Stony Brook, NY 11790.

For more information about the Holiday Tree Competition, please contact the WMHO office at 631-751-2244 or visit stonybrookvillage.com or wmho.org.

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