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Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler
Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler
Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler
Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler
Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler
Postcard courtesy of Beverly C. Tyler

By Beverly C. Tyler

[email protected]

Celebrating Thanksgiving Day as the end of the season of harvest was and still is an important milestone in people’s lives. Diaries, journals and letters provide some of the earliest records of seasonal activity and how people connected with each other to mark occasions. In America, before the telephone became a standard household item, family members and friends stayed in touch through the U.S. Postal Service.     

In 1873, a new phenomenon began when the United States Postal Service issued the first penny postcards. During the first six months, they sold 60 million. With the postcard, brevity was essential due to the small space provided. Long descriptive phrases and lengthy expressions of affection, which then were commonly used in letter writing, gave way to short greetings. 

The postcard was an easy and pleasant way to send a message. A postcard sent from one town in the morning or afternoon would usually arrive in a nearby town that afternoon or evening. A postcard sent from another state would not take much longer.

The feasting aspect of Thanksgiving has continued to be an essential part of the holiday and many of the postcards that were sent reflected that theme. In addition, the postcard helped to tie the family members together with those who were absent during the holiday.

As the telephone became more widely used, the postcard became less and less important as a means of daily communications. However, it provided us with a view of the early years of the 20th century that became a permanent record of contacts between family members and friends.

Beverly C. Tyler is a Three Village Historical Society historian and author of books available from the society at 93 North Country Road, Setauket. For more information, call 631-751-3730. or visit www.tvhs.org. 

— Postcards from Beverly C. Tyler’s collection

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Executive director of North Shore Youth Council Bobby Woods speaks to a group of community members before the 5K Turkey Trot event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis
Participants during the run/walk event. Photo by Raymond Janis

Over 100 community members raced through the paths of Heritage Park on Saturday, Nov. 19, for the inaugural Mount Sinai 5K Turkey Trot Walk/Run.

North Shore Youth Council hosted the event, with proceeds supporting local families on Thanksgiving. Bobby Woods, executive director of NSYC, detailed the motivations for putting the event together.

“I also own a few gyms, so a lot of my members wanted to do something to raise funds for local families,” he said. “The proceeds of this event are going to be used, in partnership with Crossover Christian Church [in Mount Sinai], to feed 100 families next Thursday on Thanksgiving.”

Partnerships such as these are carried out fairly often by NSYC, a 42-year-old nonprofit charity dedicated to assisting youth and families throughout the area. The council offers after-school programs, affordable child care, mental health services and community-building events, among other initiatives.

“Today, we have a little over 100 participants,” Woods said. “They’re going to try to get in a little over 3 miles, and it’s just for fun, too.”

The executive director said his two passions in life are fitness and community-building. For him, the Turkey Trot event is a way to integrate these passions and “leverage both of these platforms.” However, the event is not only a way to get fit but to support community members in need.

“The families that we’re feeding, to put yourself in their shoes, there are going to be people that wake up that are unable to feed their kids, and there’s a lot of gravity to that,” Woods said. “There are going to be 100 families that can wake up now and have a great day with their kids, and I think that’s the youth council’s mission statement — and it has always been my statement at the gym.”

Another of NSYC’s central goals is to inspire community youth to be active, motivated and stewards for positive change. Lawrence Kogel, NSYC president, offered how the 5K event plays into that broader theme.

“The other focus of the youth council is to have a vehicle to allow youth to have something to do other than playing video games and getting in trouble,” he said. “All these activities — which are spread from Shoreham, Wading River, through Rocky Point and Miller Place, to Mount Sinai and Sound Beach — are to help the youth in the community. That’s really what our organization is all about.”

Runners, joggers and walkers of all ages completed 3 1/2 circumnavigations of Heritage Park for a total of 5 kilometers. The location of the Turkey Trot carried symbolic meaning, according to Kogel, fulfilling the original intent for creating this central community hub.

“It’s a partnership between the county, the Town of Brookhaven, our organization and the civic associations and other community groups that participate in the use of the building, which was the original vision of the Heritage Park,” he said.

To follow other upcoming community events coordinated by the youth council, visit the website www.nsyc.com.

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FRA-GEE-LAY - IT MUST BE ITALIAN! The Village of Northport will hold its annual Leg Lamp Lighting at Firefly Artists on Nov. 26. File photo by Victoria Espinoza/TBR News Media
Ongoing

Girl Scouts Holiday Light Show

The 19th annual Girl Scouts Holiday Light Show and Enchanted Forest show returns to Smith Point County Park, 1 William Floyd Parkway, Shirley from Nov. 26 to Dec. 30. All proceeds from the drive-through show benefit Girl Scout programs & families across Long Island. For more information, visit www.holidaylightshow.org or call 543-6622. 

Thursday Nov. 24

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Thanksgiving Foot Races

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

Turkey Trot

The 15th annual Nissequogue River State Park Foundation’s 5k Turkey Trot at Nissequogue River State Park, 799 St. Johnland Road, Kings Park will kick off with a Fun Run for Kids at 8:30 a.m. followed by the Turkey Trot at 9 a.m. Enjoy free hot chocolate, coffee and food and activities for the kids. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers. Entry fee is $24 in advance, $30 day of race, $10 Fun Run. To register, visit www.ourstatepark.com.

Thanksgiving Day Run

American Legion Hall, 1 Mill Dam Rd., Halesite will host the Townwide Fund of Huntington’s 4-mile Thanksgiving Day Run with a Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. and 4k Run at 9 a.m.  Fees are $30 in advance, $45 day of race, $15 fun run. Call 629-4950 visit www.townwidefund.org.

Friday Nov. 25

Country Parlor Holiday Show 

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Country Parlor Holiday Folk Art & Gift Show on Nov. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Nov. 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The historic Naugles Barn is transformed into a winter wonderland with handmade items by local artisans and craftspeople including rustic Santas and tree ornaments, holiday home decor and gifts, baskets, jewelry, handmade pottery pieces, plus stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. Free admission. Call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.

Black Friday Festival

Join the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook for a Black Friday Festival from 2 to 4 p.m. Featuring a petting zoo, live music by Burke & Brenda, caroling by the Celestrial Singers and Black Friday deals all day long. Call 751-2244.

Winter Lantern Festival

The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown celebrates the holiday season with Suffolk County’s FIRST immersive Winter Lantern Festival tonight, Nov. 26 and 27 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 8, 2023. The walk-through holiday light show will feature lanterns and displays in the shape of flowers, mushrooms, farm animals, dinosaurs and many more, all handmade by artisans with decades of dedication to their craft. Be ready for photo ops with friends and family, as this will be an unforgettable experience! Tickets are $22 per person, $12 ages 3 to 12. To order, visit https://www.showclix.com/tickets/suffolk-winter-lantern-festival. For more information, call 265-6768.

Northport Tree Lighting

The annual Northport Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Northport Village Park. Northport Mayor Donna Koch will have special guests to assist her in lighting the tree. The event will feature caroling from the Northport Chorale, Santa arriving with the Northport Volunteer Fire Department, and free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Copenhagen Bakery, Shipwreck Diner, and Northport Feed & Grain. Call 754-3905.

Friday Night Face-Off

Friday Night Face Off, Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, 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 ages16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door – cash only. Call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Saturday Nov. 26

Country Parlor Holiday Show

See Nov. 25 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Nov. 25 listing.

Mount Sinai Turkey Trot

Registration is currently underway for the annual Mount Sinai Turkey Trot 5k at Mount Sinai High school, 110 N. Country Rd., Mount Sinai starting at 9 a.m. Fee is $25 in advance, $30 on race day. Kids can take part in a Fun Run starting at 8:30 a.m. for $10 in advance, $15 on race day. To register, visit www.runsignup.com. For more information, call 631-870-2500.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off its third annual holiday event, Bright Lights: Celebrate the Season, tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. with a tree lighting in the mansion courtyard at 6 p.m. Thousands of warm-white lights will create holiday magic inside and outside the Mansion and illuminate trees, wreaths, garlands, guest rooms, walkways, and the Vanderbilt Library. The event will include Candlelight Tours of the decorated Vanderbilt Mansion, visits with Santa and friends in his workshop, a children’s scavenger hunt, and a 15-minute Holiday Laser show in the Reichert Planetarium. The event continues Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3-18, and on Dec. 22. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children ages 12 and under at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Huntington Electric Light parade

The 12th annual Huntington “Holiday Express” Electric Light Parade kicks off at 5 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 led by grand marshal Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti followed by a visit with Santa, live entertainment, and Christmas Tree Lighting on Wall Street. Call 351-3000.

Leg Lamp Lighting

Something *fragile* and exciting is coming! The iconic leg lamp lighting ceremony in homage to A Christmas Story returns to the old Northport Hardware store location, currently The Firefly Artists, 90 Main Street, Northport at 6:30 p.m. Former Mayor Doll will have the honor of lighting the leg. For more information, call 754-3905.

Sunday Nov. 27

Winter Lantern Festival

See Nov. 25 listing.

Long Island Bridal Expo

East Wind Long Island, Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Long Island Bridal Expo Super Show form 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a fashion show features a variety of wedding gowns and dresses from top designers, food tastings courtesy of East Wind, live DJ Showcase and meet professionals in photography, videography, wedding gowns, flowers, limousines, tuxedos, invitations, cakes, bands, hair salon and spa’s, photo booths, lighting, and decorating. Tickets $10 with advanced Registration. $20 at the Door. Visit www.eastwindlongisland.com.

Santa Parade

Santa Claus will be the star in this annual parade along Main Street in Port Jefferson with vintage cars, civic groups and floats. Parade starts at the Long Island Train Station on Main Street at 3 p.m., then makes it way down on Main Street, going right onto East Broadway and finishes at the Port Jefferson Village Center at  101A East Broadway. Santa will be on the first floor for photo opportunities. There will be a children’s singing choir and photo ops with ‘Snow Princesses.’Sponsored by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Call 473-1414.

Monday Nov. 28

No events listed for this day.

Tuesday Nov. 29

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday Nov. 30

The Dogs of Chernobyl

Join Comsewogue Public Library in Port Jefferson Station for a program titled The Dogs of Chernobyl at 7 p.m. via Zoom.Animal behaviorist Stephan Quant will tell a story of hope and resilience about the dogs descended from pets left behind after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986. To register, call 928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org/DogsChernobyl.

Smithtown Tree Lighting

The Town of Smithtown will hold its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall, 99 West Main St., Smithtown from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy live music, school district students’ performances, treats and a special visit from Santa Claus! A particular spot will be set up to receive non-perishable food items as a donation for the Smithtown Pantry. Call 360-7512.

Holiday Lighting of the Big Duck  

A beloved annual tradition, the Holiday Lighting of the Big Duck, located at 1012 New York State Route 24 in Flanders, will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Included in the festivities are a visit from Quackerjack, the Long Island Ducks’ baseball team mascot, duck carols led by students from the Riverhead Middle School show choir, refreshments and the ever-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus by fire truck. Call 852-3377.

Thursday Nov. 1

Bedlam Street Bash

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor in celebrating the village’s past with a Bedlam Street Bash fundraiser at 7 p.m. celebrating the rowdy history of Cold Spring Harbor’s Main Street, once nicknamed Bedlam Street. Guests will enjoy delicious bites from local restaurants, rum tastings, historic then & now presentations with historian Robert Hughes, a presentation about the history of rum with Dr. Jennifer Anderson, craft-making, scavenger hunt and live music. Advance tickets are $40 per person, $50 at the door. Call 367-3418 or visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

The Kat & Dave Show

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes David Foster and Katherine McPhee to the Mian Stage for a performance of The Kat & Dave Show at 7 p.m. Join them for an intimate evening of the hits that have defined their incredible careers. Tickets  range from $49 to $100. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Film

‘Singin In the Rain’

In honor of its 70th anniversary, Singin in the Rain will be screened at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. with new digital restoration and an introduction by Philip Harwood. Gene Kelly shines as silent-movie idol Don Lockwood, whose career (and leading lady, hilariously played by Jean Hagen) is imperiled by the coming of sound – until he hooks up with lovely ingenue Debbie Reynolds. The brilliant supporting cast includes Donald O’Connor, Millard Mitchell, Douglas Fowley and the great Cyd Charisse, whose long-legged “Broadway Melody” ballet with Kelly nearly steals the show! Tickets are $15 Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘Noises Off’

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

‘A Christmas Carol’

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

‘A Christmas Story’

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

‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

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

‘Nutcracker’

A perennial favorite, Seiskaya Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts Main Stage, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook for five performances from Dec. 17 to 19. The cast will be led by Seiskaya Ballet’s award winning Principal Dancer Maya Butkevich and 1st Soloists Vivian Ye, Madeleine Martufi, Nina Zhang and Kaede Urso. Tickets  range from $34 to $40. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

‘A Christms Carol’

The Ministrel Players will present their annual holiday production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Trinity Episcopal Church’s Houghton Hall, 130 Main St., Northport on Dec. 9 and 10 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 11 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, email [email protected].

* All numbers are in (631) area code unless otherwise noted

Vendors Wanted

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

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

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

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By Heidi Sutton

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The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
Barnaby and Franklynne in 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, especially at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson. While Scrooge undergoes a transformation on the Main Stage with A Christmas Carol, Barnaby the Elf is busy making sure all the Christmas presents are delivered on time in the adorable children’s musical, Barnaby Saves Christmas. The show opened last Saturday and runs through Dec. 30. 

Written over 18 years ago by Douglas Quattrock and Jeffrey Sanzel with music and lyrics by Quattrock, it remains  as relevant as ever with the ultimate message that “every day is a golden opportunity to be better than you used to be.”

It’s Christmas Eve and Santa’s workshop at the North Pole is a flurry of activity. Head elf Sam (Josie McSwane) and fellow elves Blizzard (Michelle LaBozzetta) and Crystal (Kaitlyn Jehle) are busy putting the final touches on the Christmas presents and loading them on the sleigh. A fourth elf, Barnaby (Ryan Worrell), is the newest trainee and has been given one task by Santa (Sean Amato) — to make a little stuffed bear with dark blue pants, buckles on his shoes and a bright yellow vest. 

When it’s time to deliver the presents to all the good little girls and boys, Barnaby is left behind with Mrs. Claus (Danielle Pafundi). He soon realizes that Santa has left the stuffed bear behind and convinces Blizzard’s fawn Franklynne (Samantha Fierro) to find Santa and “save Christmas.”   

On their adventure they crash land on the roof of the house of Sarah (Danielle Pafundi) and her nephew Andrew (Sean Amato) and learn all about Hanukkah and the Festival of Lights. They also come across S.B. (spoiled brat) Dombulbury (Steven Uihlein), a Scrooge in his own right who has stuffed up all the chimneys with coal with his partner in crime Irving (Jason Furnari), in order to ruin Christmas and has hypnotized Crystal and Blizzard to help him. With the help of his friends, Barnaby will save the day but just wait until you see how!

Directed by Sanzel, the entire cast does an incredible job telling this heartwarming story. The wonderful songs, accompanied on piano by Quattrock, are just lovely, with special mention to Worrell’s solo “Still With a Ribbon on Top,” Pafundi’s solo “Miracles” and Amato’s solo “Within Our Hearts.”

Gorgeous costumes that sparkle and shine for the holidays by Jason Allyn, the incredible lighting by Steven Uihlein and the great choreography by Sari Feldman tie it all together with a beautiful holiday bow. I can think of 100 reasons to go see this show but I will only give the first — it is an unforgettable experience the entire family will love. Elf and reindeer souvenirs will be sold before the show and during intermission and the entire cast will be in the lobby after the show for photos.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Barnaby Saves Christmas on Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 28, 29 and 20 at 11 a.m. Children’s theater continues with The House That Jack Built from Jan. 21 to Feb. 4, 2023 and Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 22 to March 18, 2023. All seats are only $10. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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Pumpkin Pie. METRO photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief

Here comes my favorite weekend of the year: Thanksgiving. It starts on a Thursday, as all good weekends should. We, the Dunaief Clan, have managed to extend it into three, even four days. We deserve no less. Like many American families, our immediate members are stretched across the entire continent, from the California coast to the middle of Suffolk County on Long Island, and from below the Mason-Dixon Line and the Florida Peninsula to the Gulf of Mexico. They need that much time just to get to Grandma’s house and back.

What’s waiting for them when they arrive? Food! All kinds of favorite foods. And love. Lots of love that bridges three generations with mighty hugs. Why, it even takes a good part of that long weekend before all the members of the family finish hugging each other, at which point we sit down to eat. We get back up some hours later, only to regroup for the next meal. We know we are among the fortunate in that regard and give thanks.

Food means so many different things. There are the traditional historic dishes that symbolize the meal eaten by the Pilgrims. But we have added so much more to the basics. And each person has a favorite that tickles them when they look at the offerings on the laden table and know it was prepared especially for them. Food is love, and special foods carry that message.

It still amazes me to be surrounded by the many members of my tribe. Almost 60 years ago, before I was married, there was just me. Then, three months later, there were the two of us, my husband and I. Now there are children and children-in-law, and their children and eventually, their children-in-law. Together we populate the dining room and fill the house with chatter and laughter.

One of the high points of the weekend follows Thanksgiving dinner, when we are still sitting around the table, digesting sufficiently until we can have dessert, and we tell each other what we are most thankful for that occurred in the past year. In that way, I get to catch up on some of the events in my loved ones’ lives, and they on mine.

Speaking of dessert, the pumpkin pies will be an issue this year. For all the Thanksgivings we have celebrated here, 53 to be exact, we have enjoyed the classic finale from The Good Steer. Their pies pleased all our taste buds, from my children to my parents, who would join us from the city during those early years. Alas, The Good Steer on Middle Country Road in Lake Grove is no more, the family having closed the business. 

So, faced with this significant void, I have done some research and have come up with replacements. Whether they will be acceptable remains a sensitive question. I’ve had a number of friends offer suggestions, and I thank them kindly because they understand how important it is to find an alternative source. After all, no two differently-made pumpkin pies taste the same. The result here hangs in the balance until Thursday eve. Keep your fingers crossed for me, as my reputation as the Best Thanksgiving Grandma depends on this important outcome.

Actually I have a monopoly on the title. Thanksgiving is always celebrated at our house. My in-law children know and accept that arrangement because I trade Thanksgiving for Christmas. That seems to work for everyone in the family.

This year, we have a special event to celebrate. My oldest grandson has asked the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with to marry him, and she has accepted. We will welcome her enthusiastically, and I will give thanks for the blessing of seeing our family continue to grow.

Wishing you all, Dear Readers, a Happy Thanksgiving with the foods you enjoy and the people you love, whether they be relatives or close friends or perhaps those you recently met and have chosen to share this celebratory meal. 

On this day, we are reminded that we are all Americans together.

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Holiday Spectacular. Photo from TOB

Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro has announced the return of the annual Brookhaven Town Holiday Spectacular, an indoor, walk-through holiday light show benefiting the Holtsville Ecology Site.

Over the years, thousands of families have walked through the winter wonderland of lighted, festive displays, before stopping to take their photos with Santa in his workshop. Admission to this event is $10 per adult; $8 for seniors, veterans and children under 12; children 3 and under are free. Tickets must be purchased in advance at their event page. Photos available with Santa for an additional fee; credit cards only, no cash accepted. All proceeds benefit the Holtsville Ecology Site and go directly to the feed and care of the more than 100 animals residing there including their newest member, Leo the Lynx.

“This is a fun-filled, affordable entertainment option for families who want to come and enjoy the spirit of the holidays,” Superintendent Losquadro said. “I want to thank my staff at the Ecology Site for working so diligently to transform the greenhouses and make this event so memorable. Over the years, walking through the Holiday Spectacular has become a wonderful holiday tradition for many families.”

The show will run Dec. 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 & 18; hours on Fridays and Saturdays are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sundays, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Holtsville Ecology Site is located at 249 Buckley Road in Holtsville. For more information, call 631-451-5330.

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The Whaling Museum and Education Center is announcing a first-time end of year fundraising event celebrating the rowdy history of Cold Spring Harbor’s Main Street through food, drink, and other activities in the lively event, Bedlam Street Bash. 

Calling back to the 1850s when Main Street (Route 25a) was nicknamed “Bedlam Street,” this event will take place on Thursday, December 1, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Museum at 301 Main Street and is for adults age 21+. Inspired by the rambunctious spirit of the village during its whaling heyday, guests will travel through the museum to enjoy delicious bites from local restaurants, rum tastings, historic then & now presentations, craft-making, and live music. 

 “A whaleship arriving home to our coastal village could generate a commotion, and was cause for a community celebration,” says Nomi Dayan, Executive Director of the museum. “The blast of a cannon would first alert locals, who would watch Main Street fill with whalers who had not been home for 2-4 years. Local merchants would prepare to serve men who dreamed of a good meal. Cold Spring Harbor was, for a time, a rowdy place! We invite locals today to fall into this story and enjoy the evening with us in support of our museum.”

The museum is collaborating with Cold Spring Harbor Village eateries to offer guests delicious tastings throughout the evening. Participating eateries include Sandbar, Harbor Mist, Sweetie Pies on Main, Cold Spring Harbor Plaza Deli and Grasso’s Restaurant. In addition, guests will enjoy live music, activities, a folk-art craft, raffles, and special “Then & Now” presentations.  

Special guest and Town Historian, Robert Hughes, will transport visitors back to the waterside village in the 1800’s with his “Then & Now” presentations of Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor. He will focus on the history of the locations for the five eateries that are offering tasting for this event; Sandbar, Harbor Mist, Sweetie Pies on Main, Cold Spring Harbor Plaza Deli and Grasso’s Restaurant.

Special guest Dr. Jennifer Anderson will present a session about the history of rum during her informational and fascinating chat, “Get Your Grog On.” Tastings of different island-style rums, the “true sailor’s drink,” will also be served courtesy of Bottles and Cases in Huntington. 

Participants can gather details about historic Main Street in a special scavenger hunt, which culminates in cracking a code to receive a prize from our treasure chest. 

Guests will get creative when trying their hands at the signature craft of whalers, scrimshaw, also known as one of America’s first folk art crafts.  Guests will sketch and carve their designs into scrimshaw-style keepsake boxes.

Throughout the night, guests will hear live sea shanties, high-spirited and bawdy work-songs of sailors performed by Scuttlebutt Stu. Guests can join in these repetitious renditions.

The Whaling Museum & Education Center is selling advance tickets to the event at cshwhalingmuseum.org/bedlamstreetbash. Advance tickets are $40 per person, $20 for museum members. A limited number of advance tickets will be offered. At the door tickets will be $50 per person, $25 for museum members. Tickets are offered first come, first served. All evening activities are included in admission.    

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About The Whaling Museum & Education Center

The Whaling Museum & Education Center is the only museum in the world open year-round which explores the whaling history of the Long Island region. The Museum engages the community in exploring the diversity of our whaling heritage and its impacts to enrich and inform our lives. The museum is located at 301 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724. Visit cshwhalingmuseum.org and follow The Whaling Museum on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @cshwhalingmuseum

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Thanksgiving Turkey. METRO photo

By Heidi Sutton

While there are no laws governing which dishes must appear on Thanksgiving dinner tables, for many the fourth Thursday of November simply would not be complete without turkey. Turkey can be cooked in various ways, but roasting might be the most popular method used by Thanksgiving celebrants. This recipe for “Herb-Roasted Turkey” from Yolanda Banks’ “Cooking for Your Man” (Broadway Books) produces a mouth-watering bird that’s sure to make a lasting impression this Thanksgiving.

Herb-Roasted Turkey

YIELD:  Serves 10

INGREDIENTS: 

12 tablespoons (11⁄2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1⁄4 cup packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped, plus 4 whole sprigs

1 large sprig fresh rosemary, leaves chopped, plus 2 whole sprigs

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, plus 4 whole sprigs

15 leaves fresh sage, chopped, plus 3 whole leaves

3⁄4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for the turkey

1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for the turkey

1 15-pound turkey

1 lemon, quartered

8 shallots, peeled and halved

1 head garlic, cloves separated and peeled

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock

2⁄3 cup dry white wine

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, combine the butter, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, chopped sage, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Position a rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheat the oven to 450 F. Sprinkle the main cavity of the turkey with salt and pepper. Place the whole sprigs of parsley, rosemary and thyme and the sage leaves into the cavity. Add the lemon, 4 shallot halves and half of the garlic cloves.

Starting at the neck end, carefully slide a hand between the skin and the breast meat to loosen the skin. Spread 3 tablespoons of the herb butter over the breast meat under the skin. Tuck the wing tips under the skin, and tie the legs together to hold the shape. Season the turkey generously all over with salt and pepper.

Place the turkey on a wire rack set in a large roasting pan. Rub 4 tablespoons of the herb butter over the turkey. Roast about 30 minutes, until golden brown, and reduce the heat to 350 F. Baste the turkey with 1⁄2 cup of the broth. Cover only the breast area with a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Scatter the remaining shallots and garlic cloves in the pan around the turkey.

Continue to roast the turkey for about 11⁄2 hours, basting with 1⁄2 cup of broth every 30 minutes. Remove the foil from the turkey breast. Continue to roast the turkey, basting with pan juices every 20 minutes, about 1 hour longer, until it’s golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165 F. Transfer the turkey to a platter and brush with 1 tablespoon of the herb butter. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shallots and garlic from the roasting pan to a plate. Transfer the pan juices to a medium bowl, then skim off and discard the fat. Set the pan over two burners on medium-high heat. Deglaze the pan with the wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring the sauce to a boil, reduce the heat to medium, and cook until it’s reduced by half, about 4 minutes. Pour the sauce into a large measuring glass. Add the degreased pan juices, and broth, if necessary, to equal 3 cups of liquid.

Blend the flour into the remaining herb butter until combined. Pour the broth mixture into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Gradually whisk in the herb-butter mixture. Add any accumulated juices from the turkey platter and boil until the gravy thickens enough to coat a spoon, whisking occasionally, about 6 minutes. Add the remaining shallots and garlic to the gravy and simmer for 1 minute. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary. Serve the turkey with the gravy.

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Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin
Scene from Greenlawn Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Media Origin

By Michael Scro

A Veteran’s Day ceremony was held at Greenlawn Memorial Park this past Veterans Day on November 11th at 11 a.m., where attendees participated in the honoring of veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

Hosted by American Legion Post 1244, it featured neighboring American Legion members, Greenlawn Fire Department members, as well as community groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and family/friends of veterans.

Donna Boyle, commander of American Legion Post 1244, noted it is the only ceremony in the Town of Huntington that is held on Veteran’s Day, and said the ceremony notes all six branches of the United States Military: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force.

“America has been an all volunteer force since before 1978, which is when I joined the service,” Boyle said. “Approximately one percent of Americans have assumed the responsibility for ensuring that America’s ideals continue, and we owe these veterans a large thank you.”

Father John Carr, Chapin of American Legion Post 1244, read aloud a prayer to honor veterans, followed by the wreath presentations around the memorial statues and monuments at the park.  Wreaths were presented by American Legion 1244, Greenlawn Fire Department, Greenlawn Civic Association, Greenlawn Lions Club, Girl Scout Troop 706 and 519 and Boy Scout Troop 2255 and 32.

“We thank everyone for coming out today, and we thank our young children for coming to learn respect for American — it is very important,” Boyle said.

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Photo from Town of Huntington

Last week, in a joint statement, the Town of Huntington and the Huntington Village Business Improvement District, announced that the BID would not be able to organize the annual Holiday Spectacular this year. That decision has now been reversed.

According to a Nov. 11 press release from the town and BID, Northwell Health will provide funding to help the event go on as usual. 

“The Town of Huntington’s Annual Holiday Spectacular has garnered a lot of attention this year,” the press release read. “One key issue for this year’s event being reimagined was not only the safety concerns but the costs involved in creating such an event. The crowning glory of the Holiday Spectacular was the magnificent 65-foot multi-media Christmas tree. It must be made clear that the tree is not owned by the BID or the town, but is provided by (along with other decor) each year through Looks Great Services, Inc.”

This year the BID did not have the resources to fully fund the event in order for it to be a safe and successful one, according to the press release. The hope was to reimagine the event, but new plans wouldn’t be completed in time for the 2022 holiday season.

“However, since the plight of the spectacular was made public, we have since heard from our lead sponsor, Northwell Health and they have committed to provide the additional funding needed to ensure that the Spectacular continues for 2022,” the press release read. “Northwell Health’s generosity will enable the BID and the town to continue this highly anticipated event for the third consecutive year at its original location in Huntington Village/Wall Street.  We are grateful to Northwell Health that we can continue the tradition!”

According to the town and BID, organizers will work with local fire officials and first responders to take into account safeguards and precautions.

“We expect that this event will be ever changing based on the needs of the community, our town, and our merchants,” the press release read. “For now, we are happy to return the event so many have found to be the epitome of the holiday season for the Huntington community. We look forward to welcoming you all back to Wall Street for 2022.” 

The parade and celebration is scheduled for Nov. 26.

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