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REVISITING HISTORY The Whaling Museum in Cold Spring Harbor hosts two walking tours this weekend.
Ongoing

Festival of Trees

Visit the Festival of Trees, a month long extravaganza to kick off the holiday shopping season, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson Dec. 1 through Jan. 2, 2023 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Call 473-4778.

Thursday Dec. 15

Garden of Lights

The spirit of the season has returned to Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook with the Garden of Lights, a community-built walk-through light show for all ages tonight and Dec. 16 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Call 588-5024.

Book signing in East Northport

Barnes and Noble, 4000 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport hosts a book signing with Hilary Topper, three-time author, business owner, and now endurance athlete, at 7 p.m. Topper will discuss her latest book, From Couch Potato to Endurance Athlete — A Portrait of a Non-Athletic Triathlete followed by a Q&A and book signing. Call 462-0208.

Friday Dec. 16

Garden of Lights

See Dec. 15 listing.

Holiday Light Spectacular

Brookhaven Town’s Holiday Spectacular, an indoor, walk-through holiday light show, continues tonight and Dec. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m and Dec. 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Holtsville Ecology Site, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville. Walk through the winter wonderland of lighted, festive displays, before stopping to take a 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 www.brookhavenny.gov. All proceeds benefit the Holtsville Ecology Site. Call 451-5330.

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, Dec. 17 and 18 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. Tickets are $22 per person, $12 ages 3 to 12. To order, visit https://www.showclix.com/tickets/suffolk-winter-lantern-festival. Call 265-6768.

Third Friday at the Reboli Center

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St.. Stony Brook for an artist reception for its newest exhibit, Celebrate the Season, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments and music. Call 751-7707.

Holiday concert

St. John the Baptist Church, 1488 North Country Road, Wading River hosts a holiday concert by the North Shore Community Band at 7:30 p.m. Join them for musical comfort and joy. Selections will include your Christmas and Hanukkah favorites. Admission is free and enjoyment is guaranteed. Visit www.nscbli.org.

Saturday Dec. 17

Holiday Light Spectacular

See Dec. 16 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Dec. 16 listing.

Selden Craft & Gift Fair

One of the country’s longest continuously running indoor craft fairs, the 39th annual Selden Craft & Gift Fair heads to Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden today and Dec. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Over 200 exhibitors offer hand picked gift items including photography, textiles, soy candles, crafted jewelry, floral, organic soaps, country crafts and more. Free admission. Call 846-1459.

Holiday Walking Tours

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents Holiday Walking Tours today and Dec. 18 at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. and Dec. 30 at 4:30 p.m. These educator-led tours through historic Cold Spring Harbor village will explore Victorian seasonal traditions in the 19th century. Participants will learn about how local homes and businesses celebrated holidays in December. Hot chocolate will be served inside the museum’s workshop at the start of the tour while participants arrive. The tour starts on the pavement outside of the museum. Tickets are $15 per person. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org or call 367-3418.

Leg Lamp Lighting – just added!

Harbor House West Shore , 8 West Shore Road, Huntington invites the community to a leg lamp lighting featuring the iconic leg lamp from A Christmas Story at 5 p.m.  Refreshments will be served. Attendees are asked to bring a non perishable food item which will be donated to the local pantry. Call 470-4955.

Jazz Nativity Holiday Show

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will premiere a new holiday show called Jazz Nativity at 7 p.m. This candlelight nativity service will feature the Biblical Christmas story with a jazz tentet and Metropolitan Opera soprano Susanna Phillips. This performance, based on Wynton Marsalis’ arrangements of Christmas jazz classics, will include an impressive lineup of jazz artists teamed up with guest narrators. Tickets are $35, $30 seniors; $25 students, $20 for children at www.thejazzloft.org.

St. James Winter Walk

St. James Community Association invites the community to take part in a Holiday Winter Walk along Lake Avenue from Moriches Road to Woodlawn Ave. from 3 to 9 p.m. Enjoy Chorus Line performances, Santa at Celebrate Park, carriage rides,  music by the Sts Philip and James Choir and Smithtown School District and more.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its third annual holiday event, Bright Lights: Celebrate the Season, tonight, Dec. 18 and Dec. 22 from 5 to 8 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. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children ages 12 and under at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Spotlight Dance Show

Fred Astaire Dance Studios will hold their annual Spotlight Dance Show at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown at 6 p.m. Titled “Peace Around the Earth,” the show will deliver the importance of many global topics such as justice, racism, human rights, religion, fairness, equality, respect, freedom and peace. A huge part of the show is dedicated to the bravery of The People of Ukraine during the current Russian invasion. Tickets are $50 adults, $25 children with all proceeds to be donated to support the People of Ukraine in need due to the Russian invasion. To purchase, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Tricycle Holiday Show

First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson hosts a special holiday concert by the Tricycle Trio — Andie, Andrew and Cole Fortier — at 7:30 p.m. Join them for a night of music, love, family and friends.  Presented by the Greater Port Jeff-North Brookhaven Arts Council. Tickets are $25, $10 students in advance only at www.gpjac.org.

Chamber Music Concert

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents a chamber concert at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a live performance by a string quartet under the stars of the Reichert Planetarium. Talented musicians from Long Island Chamber Music will play a selection of pieces composed by Bach, Ravel, Sibelius, and more. Beautiful panoramic views of the stars projected onto the 60-foot planetarium dome will complement the music. Tickets are $30 per person at www.vanderbiltmuseumm.org.

Sunday Dec. 18

Holiday Light Spectacular

See Dec. 16 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Dec. 16 listing.

Selden Craft & Gift Fair

See Dec. 17 listing.

Holiday Walking Tours

See Dec. 17 listing.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

See Dec. 17 listing.

Huntington Winter Farmers Market

The John J. Flanagan Center, 423 Park Ave., Huntington hosts the Huntington Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March with over 40 vendors plus guest vendors. Visit www.longislandfarmersmarkets.com.

Winter FUNderland at the NHS

The holidays are here and the Northport Historical Museum, 215 Main St. Northport has been transformed into a Winter FUNderland starting at 1 p.m. with holiday craft stations by the Society’s Education Committee, gingerbread house crafting with SweetArts, hot cocoa and cookies provided by The Northport Chamber of Commerce, reading of the Night Before Christmas by Northport Mayor Donna Koch, photos with Santa and more! For all ages. $5 per person. Register at www.northporthistorical.org.

Northport Walking Tour

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for its final Parading Down Main Street walking tour of the year at 1:30 p.m. Tour guide Dan Sheehan makes the past come alive during this lively and informative walking tour of Northport’s historic Main Street business district. $7 per person. Register at www.northporthistorical.org.

Stanton Street Trio in concert – just added!

Stanton Street Trio

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook welcomes the Stanton Street Trio (Stanton Anderson Band acoustic) in concert at 3 p.m.  An offshoot of the legendary Stanton Anderson Band, members Larry Luby, Tom Pecoraro & Mark Fowler will be performing acoustic versions of SAB originals spanning almost 50 years.The performance is free with admission to the museum. Call 689-5888.

Greenlawn Christmas Tree Lighting

The First Presbyterian Church, 497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn invites the community to a Christmas Tree Lighting and Carol Sing at 5 p.m. After the tree lighting, come inside and enjoy Christmas carols, cookies, hot chocolate, coffee and some surprises! Call 261-2150.

Monday Dec. 19

Chanukah Comedy Night

The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills hosts a Comedy Night at 7 p.m. Join them to celebrate Chanukah with comedian Gary Vider (of AGT fame). Enjoy an evening out with friends including Menorah lighting, appetizers, donuts and a latke bar. $25 per person. RSVP at www.thechaicenter.com. Call 351-8672 for more info.

Tuesday Dec. 20

Travel Presentation Club – just added!

The Travel Presentation Club will meet at the Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St.,  Setauket at 7 p.m. Jason Platt will make a presentation on the Galápagos Islands. All are welcome. Please contact [email protected] for further information.

Wednesday Dec. 21

The Menorah and the Mentalist

Chabad of Mid Suffolk, 318 Veterans Highway, Commack will host an adult Chanukah Social  titled The Menorah & the Mentalist, at 7 p.m. with a live performance by Israeli Master Mentalist Eran Biderman, Menorah Lighting 4th candle, appetizers, drinks, sushi and fine wines. $36 per person. To register, visit www.chabadmidsuffolk.com/RSVP.

Hard Luck Café Concert 

Long Island-based singer-songwriters Pete Mancini, Nico Padden, Rorie Kelly, and Delaney Hafener of The Belle Curves will share the bill and swap songs during the monthly Hard Luck Café series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington, in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 to 10 p.m. An open mic precedes the concert.  Tickets are $20 at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Thursday Dec. 22

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

See Dec. 17 listing.

Live Nativity

One night only! Caroline Church of Brookhaven, One Dyke Road, Setauket will host a live nativity with animals at the Carriage Shed from 5 to 8 p.m.  with hot beverages and Christmas carols. Free. All ages welcome. Call 941-4245 or visit www.carolinechurch.net.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 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. Call 655-7798.

Film

‘A Christmas Carol’

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a Movie at the Museum special screening of the classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol, (1951) starring Alastair Sim on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. Refreshments and light fare will be served. Ages 21 and over only. $8 per person. Registration required by visiting www.northporthistorical.org.

‘Meet Me in St. Louis’

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Best of the Big Screen series with a screening of Meet Me in St. Louis on Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. in honor of the 100th anniversary of the birth of legendary star Judy Garland. Beginning in the summer of 1903 and ending in the following spring, the film chronicles a very busy year in the lives of the Smith family amidst the excitement leading up to the 1904 World’s Fair. Tickets are $15. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘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. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘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 guest artist, Max Lippman (Cavalier) and Seiskaya Ballet’s award winning principal dancers Maya Butkevich, Vivian Ye and Madeleine Martufi plus returning principal dancers Brianna Jimenez, Diana Atoian and Eva Pyrros. Tickets  range from $34 to $40. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.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. 

‘Northport Nutcracker Ballet’

Northport Middle School, 11 Middleville Road Northport hosts the Posey Dance Company’s production of the Northport Nutcracker Ballet on Dec 17 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. For ticket information, call 757-2700 or visit www.poseyschoolofdance.com.

All phone number are in (631) area code unless otherwise noted.

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Krispy Kreme

Welcome to the 12th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home! 

Herman and Lily

 

Meet Herman and Lily

Influential and successful in their own right, meet Little Shelter’s newest power couple, Herman and Lily! This five year old Yorkie mix and this eight year old Lhasa apso complement each other perfectly, making the case for why a double adoption is an excellent idea! Doing everything in sync, whether a walk, enjoying a pet or sharing secrets, these two are always seen side by side; their bond unmistakable. Herman is considerate and protective of his best friend, while Lily usually allows him to have control of the TV remote! Ready to enlarge their circle and welcome in a family, they are looking forward to meeting you…we suggest that you don’t keep them waiting! Call 631-368-8770.

Jack

Meet Jack

Jack is a senior Jack Russell Terrier at Brookhaven Animal Shelter in need of a hospice home. He is probably about 14 years old, is good with dogs and cats and is full of spunk. This poor sweetheart has chronic kidney disease and is on a special diet. He needs a home that will give him the extra TLC he deserves, maybe some nice home cooking too! If you are interested, please submit a matchmaker application, www.brookhavenny.gov/animalshelter. For more information, call 631-451-6950.

Linx

Meet Linx

Linx was taken to Smithtown Animal Shelter as a stray and was never claimed. This young boy is around 3 to 4 years old. He is well mannered and housebroken. Linx is beyond a typical German Shepherd and needs a GSD experienced owner. He is ball and stick obsessed and loves to play. Linx is a good natured dog that needs a strong Alpha leader to follow. He requires a very active home that will meet his mental and physical stimulation needs. Linx does not want to snuggle, he only wants to play. If you would like to meet this beautiful boy, please schedule an appointment by calling 631-360-7575.

Sebastian Miguel

Meet Sebastian Miguel – ADOPTED! HAPPY LIFE SWEET BOY!

Though only ten months old, this young charmer at Little Shelter already has the suave, debonair thing down pat! Meet Chihuahua mix and certified heart throb, Sebastian Miguel! Full of excitement and zest for life, this Passage to Freedom traveler has passed inspection with flying colors and is ready to be adopted into his forever home, eager to become part of a real family. Fun loving and busy, Chihuahuas like nothing more than being with their people and make wonderful go-everywhere companions. Stop by Little Shelter soon to meet the “man” of your dreams. Call 631-368-8770.

Krispy Kreme

Meet Krispy Kreme

This is Krispy Kreme, a handsome orange tabby available for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Krispy Kreme is a young adult male who has been a very good boy this year. He  loves to play, be picked up, and all he wants is to be someone’s buddy for the holidays. Will that be you? Call 631-368-8770.

Home for the Holidays

The Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is celebrating the holiday season with its “Home for the Holidays” promotion, featuring free pet adoptions now through the month of December. Each adoption includes free neuter or spay, vaccinations, microchip, heartworm test, flea and other tests. The normal adoption fees are $137 for a dog and $140 for a cat. All adoptable pets are looking for a forever home this holiday season. If you are interested in adopting a dog or cat, visit the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.. For more information, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov or call 631-451-6950.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of Jan. 12, 2023

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

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Renee Fondacaro of Old Field Apothecary and Tom Manuel, founder of the Jazz Loft in Stony Brook, showcase the new jazz-inspired candles. Photo from the Jazz Loft

The Jazz Loft in Stony Brook recently  partnered with local small business owner of Old Field Apothecary, Renee Fondacaro, to release three original jazz-inspired scented candles.

Fondacaro worked alongside founder Tom Manuel and the Jazz Loft team to create scents that spark the same excitement as jazz music. 

The “Lady Day” candle has notes of rose, green leaf, powder, musk, and white gardenia inspired by Billie Holiday’s signature flower that she wore in her hair. “Mood Indigo,” inspired by Duke Ellington, has notes of leather, smoke, tobacco, sandalwood, musk, and amber to bring the feeling of an elegant jazz club to your home. The holiday-inspired “Jingle Jazz” candle spikes up the traditional Christmas tree scent with notes of gin, red currant, oak, juniper, and cypress.

Old Field Apothecary candles are both gluten- and paraben-free, and made with clean burning vegan coconut apricot creme wax. Each candle is hand-poured and contains a crackling wooden wick to create a cozy, by-the-fireside experience.

“It’s always wonderful when we can work with local businesses,” says Manuel. “I’m quite excited that we could create these unique signature candles that bring together the atmosphere of the Jazz Loft and a wonderful local business such as Old Field Apothecary. Renee’s creativity in designing the scents is inspirational.”

“I’m so excited to collaborate with the Jazz Loft,” said Fondacaro. “The scents we have created reflect the jazz artists and the beautiful Stony Brook Village community. Old Field Apothecary is proud to be able to offer our natural products that are toxin-free, phthalate-free and made from vegan waxes for this local and special venue. These new scents make great holiday gifts for your favorite music lover.”

Perfect gifts for friends and family this holiday season, these exclusive candles can only be purchased in person at the Jazz Loft for $28 each, two for $50, or all three for $75.

Located at 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook, the Jazz Loft is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education and performance of the American born art form of jazz through the art of collaboration. Visit www.thejazzloft.org.

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Sons of Serendip head to the Staller Center on Dec. 11.
Ongoing

Festival of Trees

Visit the Festival of Trees, a month long extravaganza to kick off the holiday shopping season, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson Dec. 1 through Jan. 2, 2023 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Call 473-4778.

Garden of Lights

The spirit of the season has returned to Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook with the Garden of Lights, a community-built walk-through light show for all ages on Dec.8-10 and 12-16 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Call 588-5024.

Thursday Dec. 8

Port Jefferson Station Tree Lighting

Rescheduled from Dec. 3, join the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce for a Community Tree Lighting at the Chamber Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 6 to 8 p.m. with performances by School of Rock and BackStage Dance Studio. Hot chocolate will be served. Call 821-1313.

SCCC Selden Winter Concert

Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman Department of Music, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Winter Concert in the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building at 7 p.m. featuring orchestra, guitar ensemble, the Suffolk Singers and college choir. Free. No tickets required. Call 451-4110.

Friday Dec. 9

Holiday Light Spectacular

Brookhaven Town’s Holiday Spectacular, an indoor, walk-through holiday light show, kicks off tonight at the Holtsville Ecology Site, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Walk through the winter wonderland of lighted, festive displays, before stopping to take a 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 www.brookhavenny.gov. All proceeds benefit the Holtsville Ecology Site. The show continues Fridays and Saturdays 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sundays, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. through Dec. 18. Call 451-5330.

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, Dec. 10 and 11 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. Tickets are $22 per person, $12 ages 3 to 12. To order, visit https://www.showclix.com/tickets/suffolk-winter-lantern-festival. Call 265-6768.

Drive-Thru Live Nativity

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

Grounds and Sounds concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket will host a concert featuring Annie and the Cool Hand band at 8 p.m. Preceded by an open mic at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 available in advance or at the door. Call 631-751-0297 or visit www.groundsandsounds.org.

An Evening of Opera

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main St., Northport hosts an evening of opera with Opera Night Long Island starting at 7:30 p.m. with Darlene Bennet, Paricia Gallagher, Henry Horstman and more. Refreshments will be served. $10 donation, students free. Visit www.operanight.org.

Saturday Dec. 10

Holiday Light Spectacular

See Dec. 9 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Dec. 9 listing.

Drive-Thru Live Nativity

See Dec. 9 listing.

Club and Vendor Fair

Comsewogue High School, 565 N Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Club and Vendor Fair in the cafeteria from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with various high school sports and academic and specialty clubs with over 75 vendors featuring crafts,  holiday gifts, food, and a visit from Santa. For more information, call 428-2530 or 974-5668.

Northport Winter Craft Fair 

Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport hosts the 26th annual Winter Northport Craft Fair today and Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Long Island’s largest indoor craft fair showcases over 200 exhibitors featuring original art, photography, one of a kind crafted jewelry, woodcraft, textiles, apparel, personalized ornaments, organic specialties as olive oils, soaps, bath & body butters, jellies, chocolates and bakery delicacies, teas and local honey,  and much more. Free admission. Call 846-1459.

Festival of Trees and Lights

The Father’s Club of Sachem North High School, 212 Smith Road, Lake Ronkonkoma presents its annual Festival of Trees and Lights today from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Dec. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festive event will feature craft vendors, basket raffles, live entertainment and a visit from Santa. $2 admission, free for ages 6 and younger. Call 848-4855.

Three Village Winter Market

The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket hosts the 1st annual Three Village Outdoor Winter Market today and Dec. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop from an array of artisans, crafters, delicious treat makers and so much more as you kick off your holiday shopping. Free admission. Call 751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org. 

Jazz Loft Holiday Concert

The Jazz Loft will be at the Smith Haven Mall Center Court Santa Set in Lake Grove with a free performance of holiday favorites from 2 to 4 pm. Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel, Steve Salerno and Dean Johnson will be providing some jazzy holiday classics for shoppers. The performance is part of the Jazz Loft outreach mission to bring music out into the community. Call 751-1895.

Santa Parade

The Hauppauge Fire Department Engine Company 3, 122 Ledgewood Drive, Hauppauge will host its 38th annual Santa Parade at 4:30 p.m. Children may visit Santa at the firehouse from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Call 265-2499.

Holiday Walking Tours

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents Holiday Walking Tours today and Dec. 11, 17 and 18 at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. and Dec. 30 at 4:30 p.m. These educator-led tours through historic Cold Spring Harbor village will explore Victorian seasonal traditions in the 19th century. Participants will learn about how local homes and businesses celebrated holidays in December. Hot chocolate will be served inside the museum’s workshop at the start of the tour while participants arrive. The tour starts on the pavement outside of the museum. Tickets are $15 per person. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org or call 367-3418.

Holiday Flute Concert

The Long Island Flute Club presents its annual Holiday Concert at the United Methodist Church of Lake Ronkonkoma, 792 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove at 3 p.m. The ensemble, directed by Lauren Osnato will play a variety of festive classics such as “The Nutcracker Suite” and “Let it Snow” to “Sleigh Ride” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” Free. 

St. James Holiday Night Market

Join the Community Association of Greater St. James for a Holiday Night Market Wonderland at 230 2nd Ave., St. James from  3 to 9 p.m. with vendors, live music, character photos, baked treats, hot chocolate and more!

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its third annual holiday event, Bright Lights: Celebrate the Season, tonight and Dec. 11 from 5 to 8 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, through Dec. 18, and on Dec. 22. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children ages 12 and under at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Holiday Night Market

Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook presents a Holiday Night Market from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Shop for unique items sold by local vendors, enjoy fun family activities and experience the library’s walk-through light show, Garden of Lights. Call 588-5024.

SCCC Selden Winter Concert

Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman Department of Music, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Winter Concert in the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building at 7 p.m. featuring Contemporary Music Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble  and Symphonic Band. Free. No tickets required. Call 451-4110.

Miller Place Tree Lighting

The Miller Place Fire Department and Aliano Real Estate will host the 14th annual Polar Express and Tree Lighting in the Aliano Shopping Center, 691 Route 25A, Miller Place at 7 p.m. with complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, donuts, soup and pizza; entertainment by Miller Place School and Dance Pointe Performing Arts Center students; and a special visit from Santa! Call 744-5000.

Holiday Choral Concert

The Long Island Symphonic Choral Association (LISCA) presents An Evening of Sacred Music at the St. James R.C. Church, 429 Route 25A, Setauket at 8 p.m. Conducted by Eric Steward and Richard Foley, the program will include works by Bach, Mozart, Monteverdi and more. Tickets are $25, $20 seniors, students free at www.lisca.org or at the door. For more information, call 751-3952.

LIGMC Holiday Concert

The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus presents “A Visit from St. Nick and a Rockin’ Holiday” — a wide-spanning musical revue of yuletide favorites and a fabulous glitter-flecked musical retelling of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas — tonight at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket at 8 p.m. and Dec. 11 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington at 7 p.m.. $25 tickets available at www.ligmc.org/concerts and at the door.

Sunday Dec. 11

Holiday Light Spectacular

See Dec. 9 listing.

Winter Lantern Festival

See Dec. 9 listing.

Northport Winter Craft Fair

See Dec. 10 listing.

Festival of Trees and Lights

See Dec. 10 listing.

Three Village Winter Market

See Dec. 10 listing.

Holiday Walking Tours

See Dec. 10 listing.

Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt

See Dec. 10 listing.

LIGMC Holiday Concert

See Dec. 10 listing.

Northport Polar Plunge

The Town of Huntington and Special Olympics New York will hold a Polar Plunge at Frank P. Petrone Crab Meadow Beach, Waterside Ave., Northport with registration at 10 a.m. and plunge at 11:30 a.m. Visit www.polarplungeny.org.

Sunday at the Society

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a Sunday at the Society Holiday Edition at 1 p.m. Brad Kolodny, president and founder of the Jewish Historical Society of Long Island, will discuss his new book, The Jews of Long Island. Refreshments and light fare will be served. Free. Register at www.northporthistorical.org.

Rock ‘N’ Raptors fundraiser

Tickets are now on sale for Sweetbriar Nature Center’s Rock ‘N’ Raptors fundraiser at the Bates House, 1 Bates Road, Setauket from 2 to 6 p.m. featuring live music by 70’s Rock Parade, Streetfighter and Petty Rumours, raptor presentations, raffles, games, food, and more. All the funds from this event and raffles will benefit Sweetbriar’s mission. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show. Held rain or shine. Tickets are $25 per adult  (children under age 12 are free) at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Silver Chords Holiday Concert

The Huntington Moose Lodge, 631 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn hosts a classic holiday concert by the Silver Chords Chorus titled Joy at 2 p.m. Featuring traditional and new favorites including “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,”“Sleigh Ride,” “White Christmas” and more with raffle baskets. Free admission. Call 235-3593.

Sons of Serendip head to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes the Sons of Serendip for a family show at 4 p.m. and a holiday show at 7 p.m. in the Recital Hall. Winning the hearts of fans and judges alike as finalists on America’s Got Talent, Sons of Serendip transfixing stage presence returns to the Staller Center in a festive evening of warmth and cheer. For tickets, visit www.stallercenter.com or call 632-2787.

Miller Place Holiday Festival

The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society will hold its annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival at the Daniel Hawkins House, 111 North Country Road, Miller Place at 5 p.m. All are welcome. Call 476-5742.

Three Village Electric Parade

Presented by the Stony Brook Rotary Club, the Three Village Holiday Electric Parade returns to Setauket tonight at 5 p.m. Celebrating its 26th year, the parade will take place along Main Street/ Route 25A and feature festive holiday floats to kick off the season. The Setauket Firehouse will host pre-parade festivities at 4 p.m. Visit www.3Vholidayparade.com for more info.

Monday Dec. 12

Movie Trivia Night at the CAC

Do you know a lot about movies? Movie Trivia Night is back in-person in the Sky Room Café at Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington tonight at 8 p.m. Hosted by Dan French, contestants are asked 50 questions based all around film, actors and actresses, awards, and everything else associated with the world of film. Challenge like-minded film fans in a battle of wits for cash and other prizes. You can form teams, so bring some friends and work together. Feel free to play solo as well. Tickets are $10. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Tuesday Dec. 13

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday Dec. 14

Winter Secrets Walking Tour

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization presents a walking tour through Stony Brook Village at 10:30 a.m. Participants will hear about Stony Brook residents, artifacts and the holiday spirit. Stories include gilded age socialite Alida Emmet’s holiday parties, the year Dorothy Melville saved the holidays, arctic fever and the Polaris whaleboat, finding joy during the holiday season (and beyond) during the Great Depression, and more! Rain date is Dec. 15. $15 per person. To reserve your spot, call 751-2244.

Author Panel

The Port Jefferson Free Library, 100 Thompson St., Port Jefferson hosts an Author Panel featuring Sarah Beth Durst, Catherine Asaro and Kelley Skovron at 7 p.m. Moderated by Salvatore J. Filosa, Head of Technical Services and Marketing & Outreach Librarian, these award-winning authors will talk about their newly published novels, writing process, behind the scenes info, and more. Open to call. Call 473-0022 to register.

Thursday Dec. 15

Book signing East Northport

Barnes and Noble, 4000 Jericho Turnpike, East Northport hosts a book signing with Hilary Topper, three-time author, business owner, and now endurance athlete, at 7 p.m. Topper will discuss her latest book, From Couch Potato to Endurance Athlete – A Portrait of a Non-Athletic Triathlete followed by a Q&A and book signing. Call 462-0208.

Film

‘A Christmas Carol’

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a Movie at the Museum special screening of the classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol, (1951) starring Alastair Sim on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. Refreshments and light fare will be served. Ages 21 and over only. $8 per person. Registration required by visiting www.northporthistorical.org.

Theater
Jeffrey Sanzel reprises his role as Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Theatre Three

‘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. 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. 

‘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 Christmas Carol’

The Minstrel Players will present their annual holiday production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the story of Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, 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] or text 516-361-7232.

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By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Heart disease gets a lot of attention, because it’s still the number one cause of death in the U.S. We know that diet plays a significant role in this, but so do our genes.

What if we could tackle genetic issues with diet? 

A study involving the Paleo-type diet and other ancient diets suggests that there is a significant genetic component to cardiovascular disease, while another study looking at the Mediterranean-type diet implies that we may be able to reduce our risk factors with lifestyle adjustments. Most of the risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, smoking and obesity are modifiable (1). Let’s look at the evidence.

The role of genes

Researchers used computed tomography scans to look at 137 mummies from ancient times across the world, including Egypt, Peru, the Aleutian Islands and Southwestern America (2). The cultures were diverse, including hunter-gatherers (consumers of a Paleo-type diet), farmer-gatherers and solely farmers. Their diets were not vegetarian; they involved significant amounts of animal protein, such as fish and cattle.

Researchers found that one-third of these mummies had atherosclerosis (plaques in the arteries), which is a precursor to heart disease. The ratio should sound familiar. It aligns with what we see in modern times.

The authors concluded that atherosclerosis could be part of the aging process in humans. In other words, it may be a result of our genes. Being human, we all have a genetic propensity toward atherosclerosis and heart disease, some more than others, but many of us can reduce our risk factors significantly.

I am not saying that the Paleo-type diet specifically is not beneficial compared to the standard American diet. Rather, that this study does not support that. However, other studies demonstrate that we can reduce our chances of getting heart disease with lifestyle changes, such as with a plant-rich diet, such as a Mediterranean-type diet.

Can we improve our genetic response with diet?

The New England Journal of Medicine published study about the Mediterranean-type diet and its potential impact on cardiovascular disease risk (3). Here, two variations on the Mediterranean-type diet were compared to a low-fat diet. People were randomly assigned to three different groups. The two Mediterranean-type diet groups both showed about a 30 percent reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, compared to the low-fat diet. Study end points included heart attacks, strokes and mortality. Interestingly, the risk profile improvement occurred even though there was no significant weight loss.

The Mediterranean-type diets both consisted of significant amounts of fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, fish, olive oil and wine. I call them “Mediterranean diets with opulence,” because both groups consuming this diet had either significant amounts of nuts or olive oil and/or wine. If the participants in the Mediterranean diet groups drank wine, they were encouraged to drink at least one glass a day.

The study included three groups: a Mediterranean diet supplemented with mixed nuts (almonds, hazelnuts or walnuts), a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil (at least four tablespoons a day), and a low-fat control diet. The patient population included over 7,000 participants in Spain at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

The strength of this study, beyond its high-risk population and its large size, was that it was a randomized clinical trial, the gold standard of trials. However, there was a significant flaw, and the results need to be tempered. The group assigned to the low-fat diet was not, in fact, able to maintain this diet throughout the study. Therefore, it really became a comparison between variations on the Mediterranean diet and a standard diet.

What do the leaders in the field of cardiovascular disease and integrative medicine think of the Mediterranean diet study? Interestingly there are two opposing opinions, split by field. You may be surprised by which group liked it and which did not.

Cardiologists, including well-known physicians Henry Black, M.D., who specializes in high blood pressure, and Eric Topol, M.D., former chairman of cardiovascular medicine at Cleveland Clinic, hailed the study as a great achievement. This group of physicians emphasized that now there is a large, randomized trial measuring clinical outcomes, such as heart attacks, stroke and death. 

On the other hand, the integrative medicine physicians, Caldwell Esselstyn, M.D., and Dean Ornish, M.D., both of whom stress a plant-rich diet that may be significantly more nutrient dense than the Mediterranean diet in the study, expressed disappointment with the results. They feel that heart disease and its risk factors can be reversed, not just reduced. Both clinicians have published small, well-designed studies showing significant benefits from plant-based diets (4, 5). Ornish actually showed a reversal of atherosclerosis in one of his studies (6).

So, who is correct about the Mediterranean diet? Each opinion has its merits. The cardiologists’ enthusiasm is warranted, because a Mediterranean diet, even one of “opulence,” will appeal to more participants, who will then realize the benefits. However, those who follow a more focused diet, with greater amounts of nutrient-dense foods, will potentially see a reversal in heart disease, minimizing risk — and not just reducing it.

So, what have we learned? Even with a genetic proclivity toward cardiovascular disease, we can alter our cardiovascular destinies.

References: 

(1) www.uptodate.com. (2) BMJ 2013;346:f1591. (3) N Engl J Med 2018; 378:e34. (4) J Fam Pract. 1995;41(6):560-568. (5) Am J Cardiol. 2011;108:498-507. (6) JAMA. 1998 Dec 16;280(23):2001-2007.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com.

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By Matthew Kearns, DVM

Dr. Matthew Kearns

The winter holidays. Time to enjoy family and friends, eat good food, drink good drink, and celebrate. The holidays also present potential hazards for our pets. Here is a  short list of potential holiday hazards.

Candy and Chocolate Poisoning: First, chocolate contains two chemicals (caffeine and theobromine) which are powerful stimulants. Mild symptoms usually begin within 6-12 hours after ingestion and include panting, hyperactivity, increased thirst and urination. Severe cases include irregular heart rhythms, seizures, coma, and death. There are specific toxic levels for all pets but just like people some dogs and cats can be very sensitive to chocolate and show signs of poisoning from much lesser amounts.  

Second, chocolate is very high in sugar and fat. Minimally, this will give your pet a tummy ache but I have personally seen a few cases of serious gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, liver disease from ingestion of chocolate.

Macadamia Nuts: The exact portion of the nut that is toxic to dogs is unknown at this time but veterinary toxicologists (poison experts) suspect that it has to do with something in the oil. Signs include tremors, seizures, and irregular heart rhythms. Be careful about leaving macadamia nuts or nut mixes with macadamia nuts in them within the reach of your dogs.

Medications: Both prescription and over the counter medications can do great harm to our pets. A single ibuprofen or acetaminophen tablet could be potentially fatal to a small dog or cat and could cause serious illness even in a larger dog.

Poisonous Plants: Winter Lillies, Poinsettas, Mistletoe, Holly, and other seasonal plants can lead to an upset stomach in some cases, but in others can potentially cause irregular heart rhythms, kidney failure, ulcers of the mouth, etc. Best to keep these plants away from your pets or consider not decorating your house with them if you are concerned that your pet may chew or ingest them. 

Hazards Around the Christmas Tree: Christmas tree water can contain fertilizers or other chemicals can make your pet severely ill if ingested. Electric cords, tinsel, ribbons, glass ornaments, etc should either be secured away from curious pets or possibly removed to prevent electrocution, intestinal obstructions, or other internal organ damage.

Alcohol and Old (spoiled) Food: Curious pets will take advantage of a late-night party and get into these items after you go to bed. Make sure to clean up so that you do not have to worry about your pet ingesting leftover cocktails and treats that may have mold or bacteria growing on it.

Yeast Dough: The same yeast that helps the dough to rise can lead to problems in our pets. The yeast itself is potentially poisonous and the dough can continue to rise in the pet’s stomach causing painful and potentially harmful consequences.

If you know of a poisonous exposure or potential poisonous exposure call the National Animal Poison Control Center (NAPCC) at (888) 426-4435. This hotline is staffed with experts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

I hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday season, as well as a prosperous 2023. I also want to thank Heidi Sutton and all the staff at Times Beacon Record News Media and affiliates for another great year.  

Dr. Kearns practices veterinary medicine from his Port Jefferson office and is pictured with his son Matthew and his dog Jasmine.

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Are you apprehensive about the upcoming holidays? Feeling alone and missing the presence of a loved one? A workshop entitled “Grief and the Holidays” will be offered at Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North County Road, Mount Sinai on Saturday, Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon by the Caring Ministry of MSUCC. All are welcome! Please call the church office at 631-473-1582, or email [email protected] to register.

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By Michael E. Russell

Michael E. Russell

As I have mentioned in previous articles, crypto currencies are hard to understand.  I have tried to explain crypto exchanges to the readers while not fully grasping all of the nuances involved in their workings.

We had a financial meltdown in 2008 caused by the corporate giant Enron. We now have a much bigger fiasco caused by a 29-year-old named Sam Bankman Fried. This MENSA wannabe was able to do a Harry Houdini act by making 8 billion dollars in investor funds disappear overnight.

Here are a few of the victims: The Ontario Teachers Pension Plan lost 95 million dollars.  More than 100 affiliated companies are filing for bankruptcy. This financial genius has caused a situation so dire, FTX, Fried’s company stated that it doesn’t know where the assets went or who its top creditors are.

Have no worries folks because Congress is setting up committees to investigate what went wrong. Good news there. UGH! This in itself is a big problem. Apparently, Mr. Bankman Fried lobbied many elected officials in Washington hoping for loose oversight of crypto exchanges.

During the 2022 election cycle, Fried donated approximately 40 million dollars to Progressive Democratic candidates. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said she would donate the funds she received to various charities.  Nice!  How about having these funds returned to investors?

A question to be asked is why this financial collapse is being investigated after the mid-term elections? Just one more reason for term limits! Point of interest Senators Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer have been in office for more than 78 years combined. Come on already!They promise to fix problems that they are responsible for. TERM LIMITS, TERM LIMITS!!!  Wake up everybody.

Enough ranting, what’s next?  Where to invest? As I grow older, Healthcare stocks seem to be a a great area to put money.  Why?  Well, let me explain. This morning I had my 12th doctor visit this month and another one tomorrow to close out November.  During the 1970s Healthcare was 8% of U.S. GDP [Gross Domestic Product]. Today it is more than 20%.

As citizens get better health care and live longer, they also in most cases accumulate more wealth.  Due to more disposable income the Financial services sector is also a place to potentially invest. Within this sector there are areas that should do well over the next five years including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Computational biology and CRISPR-related investments. CRISPR gives us exposure to companies specializing in DNA modification systems and technologies.  

What should we be doing in December?  Consider making tax-loss trades to book 2022 losses so that you can offset future gains. The S & P 500 lost a quarter of its value at the indexes low this year. Since October it has regained some territory making it down a mere 15%!  Taking some money off the table and putting it into one and two-year treasuries, yielding 4.5% is not a bad idea. With North Korea, China and Russia rattling their sabers, some safer investments should be considered.  

Here is some advice for pre-retirees. Next year, you will be able to contribute up to $22,500 to your 401K or 403b and other retirement plans — an increase of $2,000.  Americans can also contribute an additional $6500 if you are over the age of 50.  In addition, IRA maximum contributions are now $6500.  

For those of us older folks, bond yields north of 4.5% make a portfolio of 60% stock, 40% fixed income attractive. A final thought, with the S & P down roughly 16%, here are some stocks to ponder. Are they an opportunity? Perhaps. Apple down 16% year to date.  Microsoft down 27%. Alphabet down 34%. Tesla down 45%.  Netflix down 52%. Amazon down 39%. I am not necessarily recommending them, but give them some thought.

I would love to hear from some of you that read my monthly article. I can be reached at [email protected]. From my family to yours, I wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and a prosperous 2023.

Michael E. Russell retired after 40 years working for various Wall Street firms. All recommendations being made here are not guaranteed and may incur a loss of principal. The opinions and investment recommendations expressed in the column are the author’s own. TBR News Media does not endorse any specific investment advice and urges investors to consult with their financial advisor. 

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Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan in a scene from 'She Said' Photo courtesy of Annapurna Pictures/Plan B Entertainment/Universal Pictures

By Jeffrey Sanzel

In 2019, Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey published She Said: Breaking the Sexual Harassment Story That Helped Ignite a Movement. The two New York Times reporters had exposed producer Harvey Weinstein’s long history of abuse and sexual misconduct, leading to national awareness of the #MeToo movement. The phrase traces to MySpace 2006: Sexual assault survivor and activist Tarana Burke founded the movement as a way for Black girls to share their stories of sexual trauma.

From All the Presidents Men (1976) through Spotlight (2015) and The Post (2017), cinema has addressed difficult topics through the sub-genre of investigative journalism. These movies take a potentially static premise—working an article through phone calls, research, and interviews—and elevating them into an emotionally connective experience. Director Maria Schrader has masterfully directed Rebecca Lenkiewicz’s smart and lean script for She Said. The result is a taut, unsettling, and riveting two hours.

She Said opens with the 2016 inquiry into then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s alleged sexual misconduct. The quick prologue presents the retaliation against his accusers and death threats against the reporter. The telling segment sets up what is to follow.

The film jumps five months to the ousting of conservative commentator Bill O’Reilly. The New York Times staff embarks on exposing sexual harassment in the workplace, finding widespread problems in large companies, including Amazon and Starbucks. 

Actor Rose McGowan becomes an inciting force when reporter Jodi Kantor receives a tip that McGowan had been raped by Weinstein when she was twenty-three. Kantor pursues leads and conducts interviews, but she realizes that even high-profile stars—including Ashley Judd and Gwyneth Paltrow—do not want to go on record. This reluctance further emphasizes the power and exploitation systemic in the Hollywood community and culture.

Kantor then joins forces with Megan Twohey. They interview some of Weinstein’s victims, encountering appalling experiences. The pair relentlessly pursue leads, traveling across the country and even to the UK. In every case, they face reluctance rooted in fear. 

The film accurately paints Weinstein as an arch manipulator—a bully who used emotional abuse to prey on young women. He cajoled with statements such as, “It’s just business.” He promised advancement and threatened to blackball, with his greatest weapon being his far-reaching control in the industry. One victim expresses guilt and shame over her powerlessness: “It’s like he took my voice that day.” Weinstein’s influence, coupled with Miramax’s multiple payouts and NDAs (non-disclosure agreements), kept the producer safe for years. Weinstein built the silence, and people complied.

The interviews with two former assistants—Zelda Perkins and Laura Madden—are central to the film. Madden, who initially declines to speak, hears from someone in the Weinstein organization, revealing the network of awareness in Weinstein’s court. This threat ignites Madden’s desire to cooperate with the investigation. 

The film shows the difficulty in finding corroborating evidence. The title—She Said—indicates the challenge of going beyond accusations. Threats of career loss, bad publicity, and “cash for silence” are roadblocks that Kantor and Twohey must overcome. Even the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) shows reluctance to cooperate. 

The quest takes a toll on Kantor and Twohey, invading their personal lives (though they are fortunate in the support of understanding husbands). Twohey gives birth early on and struggles with postpartum depression. Their perseverance is rewarded when several sources agree to go on public record, including Ashley Judd, who appears as herself.

As a film, She Said is relentlessly tense, with almost no breathing space, though much plays in low tones and silence. A few occasional flashbacks are a bit clumsy, but the disturbing recreation of the audiotape of Italian model Ambra Battilana Gutierrez is brilliantly recreated against images of hotel corridors. Likewise, a victim’s clothing on the floor, shown against the sound of a shower, is equally unnerving.

Carey Mulligan (Twohey) and Zoe Kazan (Kantor), both intense but never overwrought, skillfully head up a fine ensemble cast. As editor Rebecca Corbett, Patricia Clarkson once again shows her ability to be understated and fully present, guiding the two reporters with a strong hand. 

Andre Braugher displays wry depth as executive editor Dean Baquet. Jennifer Ehle and Samantha Morton are outstanding as Laura and Zelda, bringing dignity to the pain of two damaged survivors. Peter Friedman’s canny lawyer, Lanny Davis, offers dimension as well as the prevailing attitude of the misogynistic “normal.” Zach Grenier’s adversarial account, Irwin Reiter, seethes with conflict. 

While Weinstein’s hulking figure is only seen from the back, Mike Houston imbues the predator’s voiceovers with brutish, self-entitled cruelty. Finally, Judd’s presence lends an incredible additional weight to the film. Everyone invests in the narrative’s high stakes.

Suffused with tension, She Said finds much of its center in the necessarily uncomfortable and the shadow of the unspoken. Just before the story is about to run, Twohey expresses the prevailing fear: it will run, and people won’t care. While She Said is an incredible film, it is also a sober reminder there is still much work to be done.

Rated R, the film is now playing in local theaters.

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Cowboy Cookies

By Heidi Sutton

In honor of National Cookie Day on Dec. 4, here are two recipes courtesy of Live Well Bake Cookies: 75 Classic Cookie Recipes for Every Occasion (Rock Point) by Danielle Rye that will bring sweetness to any event.

Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies

YIELD: Makes 14 large cookies

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1⁄3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 bag semisweet chocolate chunks

DIRECTIONS:

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt until well combined. Set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the cubed cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes, or until well combined.

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Mix the dry ingredients until just combined, then mix in the chocolate chunks on low speed until fully incorporated.

Using a 1⁄3-cup measuring cup, measure out the balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one. Cover the cookie dough balls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Remove the baking sheets from the refrigerator and bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 15 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Cowboy Cookies

Cowboy Cookies

 

YIELD: Makes 50 to 52 cookies

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup packed light brown sugar

2⁄3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

11⁄2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

3⁄4 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans 

DIRECTIONS:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar together for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well combined.

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then mix in the chocolate chips, shredded coconut and chopped pecans on low speed until fully incorporated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside. Using a 1 1⁄2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one. Gently press each ball of cookie dough down to slightly flatten it. 

Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. 

For both recipes, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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