Home Holidays

Harbor Country Day School donates over 200 toys during annual drive

by Press Release - December 15, 2021

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On Friday, December 10, Harbor Country Day School paid a visit to Long Island Elite Limousines in St. James to deliver more than 200 toys donated to the Suffolk County Toys for Tots program. The toys were donated by Harbor Country Day School families as part of the Student Council’s annual toy drive. Given the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years, there was an even greater need for donations than usual.

Because visitors are not permitted to Harbor Country at this time, and due to social distancing requirements, both the result of COVID-19, this year’s toy drive looked different than in years past. Historically, Harbor Country Day School was a local drop off point in the community and donated toys were picked up by the Marine Corps. This year, Harbor students and faculty loaded toys onto the Harbor Country Day School bus to bring to Long Island Elite Limousines where they were subsequently delivered to Suffolk County Toys for Tots.

Harbor has contributed to the Toys for Tots drive since 1998, when former Harbor employee and former Marine Mike Guido instituted the program. Now retired from the school, Harbor continues this tradition begun by Mr. Guido.

“We’re honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the Toys for Tots drive and to work… on such a wonderful program,” said John Cissel, Head of School for Harbor Country Day School.

Tis’ the season: How to care for fresh holiday wreaths

by TBR Staff - December 14, 2021

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Majestic Christmas trees garner the lion’s share of the decorative fanfare when the holidays arrive. Trees may be the focal points of holiday decor, but the humble wreath adorning the front door is the first decoration guests are likely to see when visiting a home. Wreaths may need some care to maintain their beauty all month long. Here are some tips to help holiday wreaths last as long as possible.

Choose a wreath wisely

When shopping for a wreath, choose freshly cut greenery that you assemble yourself; otherwise, look for wreaths made from freshly cut boughs with their foliage intact. Make sure not too many needles or leaves are falling off. Heavily decorated, preassembled wreaths may be convenient, but ornaments can make it challenging to give the wreath the moisture it needs to survive.

Moisture/water

Access to moisture will help to keep the wreath fresh. While a Christmas tree trunk may sit inside of a stand filled with water, wreaths require a little ingenuity. According to the wreath and garland retailer Club Botanic, if you will not be hanging a freshly purchased wreath right away, keep it in a plastic liner in a cool, dark place to help it retain moisture. Just make sure you don’t seal that liner closed. Before hanging, lay the wreath in a couple of inches of water for about an hour or up to a day so that the cut stems can soak up water. Once the wreath is hanging on a door or elsewhere, spritz it with water every few days to prevent it from drying out.

Location, location, location

Where you hang the wreath is key to its longevity. Wreaths and garlands hung indoors likely won’t last as long as those hung outside, advises the floral retailer Bouqs.com. Evergreen boughs tend to require a colder climate to thrive, and indoor heat can prematurely zap moisture from the wreath. Using a humidifier indoors or misting the wreath may help. It’s probably best to hang fresh wreaths outdoors, but avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out the greenery. Slightly shaded spots are best. If your front door is bathed in full sun for hours, hang an artificial wreath here instead of a fresh one.

Maintain airflow

Another factor that can affect the wreath’s longevity is an ample flow of oxygen. Wreaths tend to last much longer when kept on an outer door, indicates Harbor Farm in Ellsworth, ME. Wreaths sandwiched between a front door and a storm door will probably perish faster due to lack of oxygen.

Following these tips can help keep fresh wreaths as vibrant as the day they were brought home.

Pinelawn families adorn loved one’s memorials with environmentally-friendly holiday decorations

by Press Release - December 13, 2021

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Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum has created a special holiday program enabling families to have their loved one’s memorials adorned with environmentally-friendly holiday decorations, which are recycled and repurposed, at the end of the season, and turned into compost used to continue to nourish the various plantings throughout Pinelawn’s 500-acre property.

The decorations consist of a living evergreen base and are trimmed with assorted ornamental elements, and finished with a red velvet bow. Families have the option to select from a variety of decorative options for their loved ones’ final resting place, including blankets and sprays for plots, and evergreen wreaths, cones, and tree-shaped decorations for mausoleum locations. Families can purchase the evergreen decorations through Pinelawn, and have Pinelawn place them on their behalf. This program also helps families who wish to adorn their loved one’s memorials with vibrant holiday decorations when they are not able to place them themselves.

“We recognized that we were taking too much artificial material to the landfill at the end of each holiday season so we introduced this environmentally-friendly program in 2010,” said Justin Locke, Pinelawn’s President. “This allowed us to reduce our carbon footprint and be more conscious of the environment. At the end of the season, we remove any artificial components then chip and compost the decorations. The compost is regularly turned over to facilitate the process and create mulch that is used to enrich flowering beds and newly planted trees.”

“Following in the footsteps of our founders, we are always looking to be good stewards to the environment and help educate the community throughout the year,” continued Locke. “Our families very much appreciate the holiday program which not only allows them to pay tribute to their loved ones during the holiday season but also helps the environment where their loved ones are laid to rest.”

Pinelawn’s holiday program began the day after Thanksgiving and continues through mid-January. Once the holiday season is over, Pinelawn’s team collects the holiday decorations, which are composted and spread throughout the 500-acre property both in the planting beds and also when planting or transplanting trees.

For more information about Pinelawn’s environmentally-friendly holiday program, including regulations regarding placement, and to select and purchase decorations, visit www.pinelawn.com or this link.

Proceeds from the sale of Pinelawn’s holiday decorations go to the Pinelawn Maintenance Fund, which helps provide support in the care of Pinelawn’s magnificent 500-acre grounds and arboretum. Recently awarded Level II status from the International Arboretum Accreditation Program, ArbNet, the Pinelawn Arboretum is maintained by a full-time gardening staff, including a certified arborist, to ensure spectacular park-like grounds.

Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, located in Farmingdale, New York, is a non-sectarian cemetery prided on creating and maintaining a beautiful and serene environment where families can find tranquility and comfort. Its open and expansive landscape features hundreds of acres of manicured grounds, unique architecture, flowing bronze fountains, and flower-lined walks. Its beautiful memorial gardens offer all who visit, scenic beauty where they can reflect upon their loved ones in peace. For more information on Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, or to schedule a tour of the property, visit www.pinelawn.com or call 631-249-6100.

Recipe for the holidays: Allergy friendly sugar cookies

by Press Release - December 13, 2021

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Allergy Free Sugar Cookies. Photo from Stop & Shop

Allergy Friendly Sugar Cookies

Are you looking for the perfect holiday cookie recipe that can be made allergy free? Look no further than these delicious allergy friendly sugar cookies, courtesy of Stop & Shop!

YIELD: Makes 36 cookies

INGREDIENTS:

2 sticks plant-based buttery sticks (1 cup), softened

1 cup granulated sugar

5 tablespoons oat milk, divided

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

2 cups powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Assorted food gels

1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS:

In large bowl, with mixer on medium speed, beat buttery sticks and granulated sugar 3 minutes or until fluffy, scraping down bowl occasionally. Add 3 tablespoons milk and vanilla extract; beat 2 minutes or until incorporated, scraping down bowl occasionally. Add flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt; beat 1 minute or until just incorporated.
Transfer dough to work surface; divide into 2 equal pieces. Roll each piece to 1/4-inch thick between 2 sheets parchment paper; stack dough on rimmed baking pan and freeze 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°; line 3 rimmed baking pans with parchment paper. Place chilled dough on work surface; remove parchment paper. With winter-themed cookie cutters, carefully cut out cookies; transfer cookies to 2 prepared pans, 2 inches apart. Bake cookies 10 minutes or until set and edges are lightly browned, rotating pans halfway through baking; cool cookies on pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely. Gather dough scraps, roll out between 2 sheets parchment paper and freeze 30 minutes; cut out and bake cookies on remaining prepared pan as directed above. Makes about 36 cookies.
In medium bowl, whisk powdered sugar, cream of tartar and remaining 2 tablespoons milk. Makes about 1 1/4 cups.
Divide icing into smaller bowls; add color gels to create desired colors. Transfer icing to piping bags with small round tips.
In small microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave oven on high 1 minute or until melted, stirring every 20 seconds; stir in oil. Transfer chocolate mixture to piping bag; snip tip of piping bag with kitchen scissors to make small hole.
Decorate cookies with desired icing colors, chocolate and sprinkles, if desired; let dry at room temperature 6 hours or up to overnight. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Town of Brookhaven INTERFACE Toy Drive underway

by Press Release - December 12, 2021

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Document — Photo from Town of Brookhaven

Donated toys surround a holiday tree at Town Hall. Photo from TOB

On December 6, Supervisor Ed Romaine and Councilman Neil Foley visited the “North Pole” at the Town of Brookhaven’s INTERFACE Program headquarters in Patchogue to accept gift donations from NY State Senator Alexis Weik. The Senator collected dozens of toys in her district to help needy families have a happy holiday season. The “North Pole” facility is used to store and distribute toys donated during the Town’s INTERFACE Toy Drive. Pictured left to right are Supervisor Ed Romaine; INTERFACE Coordinator Josephine Lunde; Senator Alexis Weik and Councilman Neil Foley.

The INTERFACE Toy Drive is sponsored by the Town of Brookhaven Youth Bureau. Through raising donations, they will provide presents for thousands of children in need, ranging in age from infant to 15 years of age. Donations can be dropped off at the following Town locations now through December 17:

Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill in Farmingville
Brookhaven Highway Department, 1140 Old Town Road in Coram
New Village Recreation Center, 20 Wireless Road in Centereach
Brookhaven Calabro Airport, 135 Dawn Drive in Shirley
Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A in Mount Sinai
Moriches Bay Recreation Center, 313 Frowein Road in Center Moriches
Brookhaven Town Parks & Recreation, 286 Hawkins Road in Centereach
Brookhaven Town Vehicle Control, 550 North Ocean Avenue in Patchogue

For more information, please call the Town of Brookhaven Youth Bureau at 631-451-8044 or visit the Town website.

Destination: North Pole — Letters collected for Santa during Miller Place event

by Heidi Sutton - December 12, 2021

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The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society hosted its annual Visit with Mailman Mark event on the grounds of the historic 1720 William Miller House on Dec. 5.

Children eagerly lined up in front of the building that once served as the area’s original post office to greet Mailman Mark and give him their letter to Santa who promised that they would all receive letters back from the North Pole before Christmas.

The well-attended event also featured a vintage fire truck complete with a Dalmatian mascot named Sparky, holiday crafts, story time, raffle baskets and delicious holiday cookies.

Proceeds from the event will be used for the preservation and restoration of the William Miller House, the oldest home in Miller Place.

— All photos by Heidi Sutton

Cayla’s Column: A holiday party for wildlife

by Cayla Rosenhagen - December 10, 2021

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By Cayla Rosenhagen

What do you get when you combine a fun, learning experience full of incredible creatures with a festive, homemade craft fair? Magic and fun for the whole family!

The festival took place at Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown on December 4. I arrived with my family a little after dusk, eager to see the rescue animals and browse the tents full of artwork and handicrafts. Vendors’ booths were spread out across the lawn, sparkling with colorful fairy lights and candles, and decked with festive garlands.

Smiling festival-goers walked around sipping hot chocolate, visiting the shops, and meeting the ambassador animals, accompanied by friendly and knowledgeable Sweetbriar volunteers. The upbeat music of local ska and pop-punk cover band Crisis Crayons contributed to the cheerful atmosphere.

Many of the vendors I met with sold nature-related goods and artwork. For instance, Audra Donroe is an art teacher and creator from Northport. Her vibrant and stunning display of work ranged from original artwork and prints to postcards and ornaments utilizing natural imagery such as owls and plant life. She grew up coming to Sweetbriar and has been vending for 4 years. “Any chance I have to bring awareness and support to Sweetbriar, I gladly do it,” she says.

I also visited a booth selling organic, homemade elderberry syrup. It was run by the business’s founders, Connor and Tommy, aged 7 and 9, and their parents. I spoke with their mother, Michelle Biddle, who explained that elderberry is a natural remedy for cold and allergy symptoms.

Other vendors included Once Upon A Favor, who were selling irresistibly aromatic bath bombs, soaps, and candles, and Beast Makers, who sold one-of-a-kind jewelry and occult items made out of ethically sourced animal bones and antlers.

Throughout the event, volunteers from the Center gave presentations about some of the animals who are permanent residents there. Guests met Opal the Virginia Opossum, Seven of Nine the Barred Owl, Stitch the Red-tailed Hawk, Nebula the Barn Owl, and more. Sweetbriar provides care for over 100 animals. For many of them, Sweetbriar is their forever home as they cannot be released back into the wild due to their injuries.

According to Sweetbriar’s program coordinator, Veronica Sayers, the Holiday Party is an annual event that has taken place for around 40 years. Veronica explained that vendors pay a fee to take part in the event, and the proceeds go towards food and other vital resources for the animals Sweetbriar rehabilitates and cares for.

The event itself was free for visitors, although donations were appreciated. If you are interested in donating to help support the Center’s work and the animals in their care, please see their website for more details on how to do so. Other ways to show your support include spreading the word about Sweetbriar and attending their upcoming events. These include the Owl Prowl on December 9, weekly yoga classes, and the Superheroes of the Sky raptor event on January 1st.

Come visit Sweetbriar and be mesmerized by the incredible animals yourself! The Nature Center and Preserve at 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, please call 631-979-6344 or visit sweetbriarnc.org.

Cayla Rosenhagen is a local high school student who enjoys capturing the unique charm of the community through photography and journalism. She serves on the board of directors for the Four Harbors Audubon Society and Brookhaven’s Youth Board, and is the founder and coordinator of Beach Bucket Brigade, a community outreach program dedicated to environmental awareness, engagement, and education. She is also an avid birder, hiker, and artist who is concurrently enrolled in college, pursuing a degree in teaching.

Poetry reading held at 25th annual Charles Dickens Festival

by Press Release - December 10, 2021

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Dickens Festival Ms.Consalvo and Elayna Jacobs — Teacher Monica Consalvo with Elayna Jacobs

A DICKENS TRADITION

Four Port Jefferson Middle School students shared a unique spotlight when they read their poetry to the many spectators during the 25th annual Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson on Dec. 3. Accompanied by teacher Monica Consalvo, sixth grader Elayna Jacobs, seventh graders Deia Colosi and Julie Friedman and eighth grader Gianna Viviano shared their winter-inspired poems during the special evening lantern dedication that served as a backdrop to the Village’s transformation to the Dickensian era, with streets filled with roaming characters including Dickens Mayor, Father Christmas, Scrooge, the Town Crier and the beloved chimney sweeps

Winter

By Elayna Jacobs, Grade 6

Winter is every child’s dream.

As snowflakes glisten in the distance,

children play in the snow.

Snowmen are built.

Childhood wonder sparkles.

Year after year the remembrance of this winter day.

Family

By Julie Friedman, Grade 7

Families coming together joyfully

Everyone walking peacefully

Smiles and laughs are contagious

Being sad seeming outrageous

The act of giving and love being expressed

Everyone feeling fortunate and blessed

Although a piece of the puzzle may be missing for some

Don’t let that stop you from living and having fun

Your loved one’s memory is still in your heart

And always know they will never be to far apart

So let’s be happy of the memories you guys have shared

Feeling joy and peace and never feeling scared

During the holiday season, think of our loved ones that are no longer here.

Winter Sights

Deia Colosi, Grade 7

Spring’s blooming buds-

Summer’s fiery sun-

Fall’s vivid, pictorial colors-

But none can compare

To winter’s shining frost,

Sparkling in the morning sun.

‘Tis an amazing sight to see

Icicles glinting in every tree

And frosted fields of white

Whose shine does not compare

The rolling plains of endless white

With the occasional spark of light,

As far as the eye can see.

Ah! ‘Tis beauty in its purest form.

A season of wondering and wandering,

Moonlit and cold,

Remote, yet beautiful still.

A season of starlight.

Draped in a mantle of cold and frosted stars

This season

Of winter.

Nona’s Kitchen

By Gianna Viviano, Grade 8

Walking into Nona’s kitchen on Christmas Eve is like entering a new world

New sights by the second are being unfurled

The pots and pans are everywhere, some boiling to the top,

Uncle Joe is picking at the olives and Nona scolds him to stop.

The smell of sauce, lemon, and garlic fill the air.

Our tummies grumble and from the tray more rice balls disappear

Flavor explodes on our tongues and we crave more

We get caught red-handed and shooed out the door.

Little cousins run around, as the parents jump out of their way

Aunts and uncles reliving their childhood Christmas days

Nona pulls the octopus out of the pot and scares me half to death.

We start laughing and I can’t catch my breath

The final timer goes off, and the symphony of chaos comes to a rest

Now it’s time for dinner, the very very best

From babies to 80s we sit together at the long table

We think about how Christmas all started in a stable

Pop says the blessing, and we thank God for this day,

We finally begin eating when we hear Nona Say,

“Tutti A Tavola Di Mangiare”

Santa Claus visits historic Longwood Estate

by Press Release - December 9, 2021

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On Dec. 4, Town of Brookhaven Councilman Michael Loguercio was at historic Longwood Estate in Ridge to welcome Santa Claus to the Town’s annual “Santa, Trains, Old Fashion Sleigh Ride and Hot Cocoa” celebration. The traditional holiday event included a meet and greet with Santa for the children and their families, along with a holiday trains display, sleigh rides, popcorn and chestnuts that were “roasted on an open fire.” Hundreds of children and their families attended the celebration as Santa accepted the handwritten letters from each of the kids who took the time to share what they wanted for Christmas this year. Santa arrived in a Ridge Fire Department Fire Police Van driven by his favorite Elf, Councilman Loguercio. Mrs. Claus was in attendance, along with three more of Santa’s elves.

Pictured left to right are Councilman Loguercio; Longwood High School student, Brianna Colon; Santa Claus; Longwood High School student Karah Molloy; Mrs. Claus and Councilman Loguercio’s Chief of Staff, Victoria Molloy.

“I am always honored to host events that provide children and their families some old fashion family fun. As a special helper elf to Santa, the overwhelming happiness of the kids that day really make this so worthwhile year after year. Thank you to Santa, Mrs. Claus and all the other elves that took the day to help Santa and thank you to all the amazing men and women in our Parks Department for all their help in the preparation of this day,” said Councilman Loguercio.

Photos from Town of Brookhaven

Kids Korner: December 9 to December 16, 2021

by Heidi Sutton - December 9, 2021

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Theatre Three BARNABY SAVES CHRISTMAS clockwise Josie McSwane, Steven Uihlein, Katie Lemmen, Dana Bush — Clockwise from left, Josie McSwane, Steven Uihlein, Katie Lemmen, Dana Bush. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.

Programs

Owl Prowl

Visit Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown on Dec. 9 for an Owl Prowl from 6 to 8 p.m. to meet and learn about some of their resident owls. Embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and maybe call in an owl or two. Dress warmly, and bring a flashlight. Open to families with children ages 5y and up. Tickets are $15. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org or call 979-6344.

Snowflakes!

Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a children’s program for ages 3 to 5 titled Snowflakes! on Dec. 11 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children and their parents with explore nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com and search for #NatureEdventures. For more information, call 581-1072.

Star Quest!

New! Calling brave explorers! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor presents Star Quest! from Dec. 11 to 31 Thursday to Sundays and Dec 26 to 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hunt for star constellations around the museum with a spyglass to navigate your journey, just like mariners at sea. Solve puzzles to find your reward — a glittery star lantern you can decorate in our workshop to light your way home. For ages 5 and older. Admission fee plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418 for further details.

Children’s Holiday Party

Celebrate St. James will host a Children’s Holiday Party at the St. James Community Culture Arts Center, 176 Second St.. St. James on Dec. 11 from 1 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a Holiday Hoopla Puppet Show, a holiday craft and pictures with Santa. Recommended for ages 4 to 8. $10 per child with an adult, $5 each additional child in the family. Register online at www.celebratestjames.org or call 984-0201.

Marshmallows, Cocoa and Crafts

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket hosts a children’s workshop, Marshmallows, Cocoa and Crafts, on Dec. 12 from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. Create your very own cocoa cups, make a snowy time marshmallow craft, take a tour of the farm, and enjoy seasonal stories by the warm fire. For ages 4 to 9. $40 per child. To register, call 689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Holiday Train Display

Historic Longwood Estate, Longwood Road & Smith Road, Ridge will present a beautiful holiday train display Dec. 12 to 18 and Dec. 26 to 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids can play an “I Spy” game to find hidden items in the display. Free. Call 924-1820.

Theater

‘Frozen Jr.’

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

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

The holidays have arrived at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 20 to Dec. 26. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As Santa’s littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Frosty’

Tis the season! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Frosty from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ebenezer Pierpot and an evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Dad, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! Tickets are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Film

Polar Express screening

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

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