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The Paul Taylor Dance Company will close out the season on May 3. Photo courtesy of Staller Center

By Rita J. Egan

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts has planned an upcoming spring season filled with diverse entertainment options, from music to dance to comedy and nights out on the town to family-fun experiences.

Season openers

STAR POWER: Two-time Tony® Award-winner Sutton Foster returns to the Staller Center on February 1. Photo courtesy of Staller Center

Alan Inkles, Staller Center director, said the season kicks off on the Main Stage with family fun on Sunday, Jan. 26. The circus act The Great DuBois, featuring Michael DuBois and Viktoria Grimmy, will feature juggling, aerial stunts, comedy and more,

“It’s that time of year where it’s three weeks after the holidays are over, you’re looking for something to do, and I thought a nice family show would be a good time for that,” he said.

Later that week, on Saturday, Feb. 1, the venue will host its annual gala. This year will be An Evening with Sutton Foster, featuring the two-time Tony Award winner in her solo concert. Foster has released three studio albums that mix Broadway and jazz classics along with her own compositions.

Regarding Foster, who has starred in several Broadway productions, including Thoroughly Modern Millie, Anything Goes and The Music Man, Inkles said, “No one is working harder or doing more shows.”

For the first time this year, gala attendees can purchase tickets for the show, a pre-concert dinner and a post-show dessert reception. As in previous years, they can also buy tickets for the show only or the show and reception. 

According to Inkles, the money raised from gala ticket sales helps to produce other Staller Center shows and to fund its educational outreach programs. This outreach includes making tickets available to underrepresented families and university students and bringing petting zoos to various schools, churches and libraries.

Let the music play

Among this season’s musical acts will be Grammy-winning violinist Joshua Bell and soprano Larisa Martinez on Feb. 15 with Voice and the Violin. The husband-and-wife act will play classical art songs and operas to show tunes and selections from Latinx composers. Mardi Gras will be celebrated on Feb. 21 in the Staller Center’s Recital Hall with New Orleans Songbook, presented by Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Melissa Errico, accompanied by prolific jazz pianist Billy Stritch, will return to the Staller Center on March 22 for a tribute concert honoring the late Stephen Sondheim. Inkles described Errico as the “quintessential singer of Steven Sondheim.”

The Tony nominee will interpret the songwriter’s works, including Send in the Clowns and Good Thing Going and offer insights into the stories behind the pieces.

“Every Broadway singer in the world knows if you want Sondheim, Melissa Eririco is your gal,” Inkles said.

Returning on April 2 is Starry Nights. Directed by Colin Carr, Stony Brook University Department of Music musicians will perform chamber selections, including the works of Schubert, Schoenberg and Schulhoff.

On April 14, the Emerson Legacy Series will perform with former Emerson String Quartet member Paul Watkins. While known for being a cellist, Watkins will be playing piano in the April show, accompanying soprano Christine Goerke. The night will feature classical and cabaret styles and also include Eugene Drucker on violin and Larry Dutton on viola.

Make them laugh

The Staller Center will present two comedy productions this season. The Comedy of Errors by The Acting Comedy, in conjunction with the nonprofit Play on Shakespeare, takes place on Feb. 8. The comedy incorporates mistaken identities with whimsical adventures.

Brooklyn native Chris Distefano will perform his comedy show on March 8. Inkles described the comedian, known for his work on MTV’s Guy Code and Girl Code, as charming and having a growing fan base and said the act is a relatively clean show.

More fun for the family

The month of March will end with the classic Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf on March 30. The Staller Center Outreach Ensemble, which includes SBU music department students, allows audience members to learn how each instrument represents a character in the tale. The student-actors will also mingle with ticket holders after the show, where attendees can try the instruments. Inkles said the play is a way to introduce young people to the arts. In addition to the performance on March 30, the following day, children from a few of Suffolk County’s school districts will attend free of charge. During the year, the outreach ensemble also performs at schools, senior centers and hospitals.

Circus company The 7 Fingers will present Duel Reality on April 11 and 12. The company blends circus, theater and dance. Inkles said the storyline is loosely based on Romeo and Juliet with two feuding families and includes stunts and illusions.

In addition to the circus element, Inkles said, “I think the adults will enjoy the story that’s going on behind it.”

Dancing feet 

The Syncopated Ladies, known for fusing storytelling with tap dancing and winning the first dance crew battle of So You Think You Can Dance, will perform at the Staller Center on March 14. The all-female tap group is choreographed by Emmy Award-nominated choreographer Chloé Arnold, who collaborated with Beyoncé in the past.

“This is going to be a phenomenal night,” Inkles said. “It’s really great for young people, and people who love tap.”  

A week later, on March 21, audiences can enjoy Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond, which features traditional Indian dances from classical to Bollywood hits. Inkles said the production includes approximately 30 to 40 dancers.

Inkles said the Staller Center has partnered with Indu Kaur, owner of Curry Club at SaGhar in Port Jefferson, to bundle a ticket to the show and dinner at the restaurant for $95.

“I want to get the Indian community to our show, and I want the American community, too, because I want them to see the culture,” Inkles said. “I really want this amazing Indian community to make sure they come to this and get to see the culture and share with our audience.”

The last dance performance and show of the Staller Center’s spring season will be on May 3 with the Paul Taylor Dance Company. The modern dance group will perform classics and new works.

And, more

Inkles said in addition to the Staller Center’s spring season, the venue hosts the Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra; and offers the Met Opera: Live in HD series on the Main Stage screen and art exhibitions in the Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery.

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts is located at 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook. To order tickets, call the box office at 631-632-2787 or visit stallercenter.com.

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Author Krista Legge will be attending the fair. Photo from MCPL
Author Edna White will be attending the fair. Photo from MCPL
Author Debra Scala Giokas will be attending the fair. Photo from MCPL
Author Paul Rodriguez will be attending the fair. Photo from MCPL
Author Jean Derespina will be attending the fair. Photo from MCPL

Middle Country Public Library will welcome more than 75 authors during its Bagels and Books: A Local Author Fair on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m, to 1 p.m., at its Centereach branch located at 101 Eastwood Blvd.

The community is encouraged to visit and meet these talented writers who reside on Long Island. Several different genres will be represented in categories of adult, young adult and children.

Adult authors expected to attend include Edna White of “Publish for Profit: A Journey to Publish and Promote Your Book for Profit” and “The Love Manifesto: The Unstoppable Way to Love Yourself” and “Remnants of A Dark Secret: Poetry Through the Pain.” Others include Effie Kammenou (“Evanthia’s Gift,” “Waiting for Aegina,” and “Chasing Petalouthes”) and Elyse Salpeter (“The Hunt for Xanadu,” “Flying to the Light” and “Nowhere to Run.”)

Krista Legge of “A Real Lion Story” and “The Comfy Spot,” and Paul Rodriguez of “The Sandwich Boy Rescue” and “The Magical Song of Sona and Dora” are among the children’s authors who will be in attendance. Others include Debra Scala Giokas (“Claire: The little girl who climbed to the top and changed the way women dress” and “Ladies, First: Common Threads”) and Jean Derespina (“The Famous Phoebe of Long Island” book series).

Randall Lombardi, who wrote the young adult book, “The Ascension,” will be in there as well.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase books and get their books signed. No registration required.

For more information, please call 631-585-9393 x296.

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METRO photo
Home remedies may be more helpful than supplements

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

These past few weeks, I’ve been hearing a lot more sniffling, sneezing and coughing. Cold season is here. A cold’s effects can range from mild annoyance to more serious symptoms that put us out of commission for weeks.

First, you might be able to prevent catching a cold with some common-sense tactics: wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face to help minimize your exposure. Frankly, this is good practice to avoid many of the viruses circulating at this time of year.

If you do catch a common cold, you might be able to reduce your symptoms or the cold’s duration with some simple homestyle remedies and a few dietary supplements. 

How do you relieve cold symptoms?

Congestion or coughing symptoms can be eased by sitting in a steamy bathroom. This simulates a medical mist tent, moisturizing your nasal and bronchial passages. 

You might also try nasal irrigation, which uses a saline rinse or spray to flush your sinuses. This can help clear immediate congestion and thin secretions (1). There are pre-filled versions on the market, which make them easier to use. If you mix your own, the Cleveland Clinic’s website has detailed instructions and guidance (2). A few key points: do not share equipment, clean your equipment properly, and do not use tap water without boiling it.

Dry heat is your enemy when you’re experiencing cold symptoms. If your home or office is dry, use a cool mist humidifier to put some humidity back in the air. Take care to clean your humidifier to avoid mildew and mold buildup.

You can eat salt-free soups loaded with vegetables to increase your nutrient intake and loosen congestion. I start with a sodium-free soup base and add spices, onions, spinach, broccoli, and other greens until it’s stew-like. High levels of sodium can dehydrate you and make you feel worse. Caffeine-free hot teas will also help loosen congestion and keep you hydrated.

Does Zinc reduce a cold’s duration?

According to a meta-analysis that included 13 trials, zinc in any form taken within 24 hours of your first symptoms may reduce the duration of a cold by at least one day (3). Even more importantly, zinc may significantly reduce the severity of your symptoms throughout, improving your quality of life. This may be due to an anti-inflammatory effect.

One of the studies found that zinc reduced the duration of the common cold by almost 50 percent from seven days to four days, cough symptoms were reduced by greater than 60 percent, and nasal discharge was reduced by 33 percent (4). Researchers used 13 grams of zinc acetate per lozenge taken three-to-four times daily for four days. This translates into 50-65 mg per day.

There are a few serious concerns with zinc. First, the dose researchers used was well above the maximum recommended intake is 40 mg per day for adults (5). Also, the FDA has warned against nasal zinc administration with sprays, which can result in permanent loss of smell.

Studies that showed a benefit have used different formulations, delivery systems and dosages, and there is no current recommendation or consensus on what is optimal.

Does vitamin C or echinacea help?

According to a review of 29 trials, vitamin C did not show any significant benefit in preventing or reducing cold symptoms or duration for the general population (6). However, a sub-group of serious marathon runners and other athletes who took vitamin C prophylactically caught 50 percent fewer colds.

The jury is still out on the effectiveness of echinacea for treatment of duration and symptoms, but the results are inconsistent and disappointing (7). In a randomized controlled trial with 719 patients, echinacea was no better than placebo for the treatment of common cold symptoms (8). There are ongoing studies to determine whether prophylactic use helps prevent colds (9). 

Should you exercise or not?

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine may challenge your perceptions about exercising when you have a cold. Participants who did aerobic exercise at least five days per week, versus one or fewer days per week, had a 43 percent reduction in the number of days with colds over two 12-week periods during the fall and winter months (10). Even more interesting is that those who reported themselves as being highly fit had 46 percent fewer days with colds compared to those who perceived themselves as having low fitness. Their cold symptoms were reduced significantly as well.

References:

(1) Am Fam Physician. 2009 Nov 15;80(10):1117-9. (2) clevelandclinic.org (3) Open Respir Med J. 2011; 5: 51–58. (4) J Infect Dis. 2008 Mar 15;197(6):795-802. (5) ods.od.nih.gov. (6) Cochrane Database of Syst Reviews 2013, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD000980. (7) Cochrane Database of Syst Reviews 2014, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD000530. (8) Ann Intern Med. 2010;153(12):769-777. (9) nccih.nih.gov. (10) British J Sports Med 2011;45:987-992.

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 or consult your personal physician.

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Bryan Johnson in a scene from 'Don't Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever.' Photo courtesy of Netflix

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Netflix is streaming Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever, focusing on Bryan Johnson, the entrepreneur who is “determine[d] to live forever—or die trying.” Johnson, now forty-seven, believes death’s inevitability should not be accepted and embarked on an extreme anti-aging protocol.

Johnson founded and was CEO of Braintree, a company specializing in web payments for e-commerce. In 2012, Braintree acquired Venom for over $26 million. One year later, PayPal (then part of eBay) bought the company for $800 million; estimates put Johnson’s profit at $300 million. In October 2021, Johnson announced Project Blueprint, his anti-aging endeavor. Don’t Die focuses on this mission, turning his life into a longevity experiment. 

The much-lauded director Chris Smith (Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond, Fyre, 100 Foot Wave, etc.) created a documentary alternating between Johnson’s daily regimen and his more extreme activities. Each morning, Johnson exercises for an hour, takes a massive number of medications and supplements, eats several pounds of vegetables (he is vegan), and undertakes a range of therapies (light therapy, a hair growth cap, and others). He has a medical-grade clinical operation in his home worth $2.5 million.

Every vital sign is measured and tracked. At the time of the filming, he was in the optimal 99th percentile for both muscle and fat. He claims to have reversed his biological age by 5.1 years in two years. His speed of aging is .69, which means that he ages eight months every twelve months.  

In addition to the more commonplace, Johnson ventured into the world of plasma exchange with his son, Talmadge (as well as giving his own to his father), organ transplant medication suppressing the immune system, and gene replacement therapy (performed on the island of Roatán, off the coast of Honduras).

Much of the film displays his relationship with his son, Talmadge, who came to live with him for his senior year of high school. The divorced Johnson became estranged from his ex-wife and three children when he left the Mormon church. Talmadge, struggling with his own beliefs, chose to join Johnson, who quickly brought him into his world of exercise, diet, and some of the more extreme endeavors. The uncomfortable scenes between them feel forced. Whether they share genuine affection is hard to parse with the mostly unexpressive Johnson. 

While shopping with Talmadge for towels in a Chicago Target, Johnson breaks down at the thought of his son entering the University of Chicago. Is he crying for his son or the cameras? Even Johnson’s statement, “I wish I had Talmadge’s legs. He’s the perfect specimen,” resonates less complimentary and more disturbing.

Johnson claims relationships are important but admits he is not good at them. (Don’t Die briefly mentions the ugly lawsuit surrounding his breakup with Taryn Southern following her breast cancer diagnosis.)

Don’t Die’s tone varies, alternating between pedestrian day-in-the-life and darker moments that suggest an episode of Black Mirror. In its most extreme, the film offers shades of Jurassic Park and, in one particularly uncomfortable sequence about surgical experiments with mice, The Human Centipede.

For over half the film, Johnson is shirtless in his kitchen, swallowing pills or eating the same meal (2,000 calories a day of the same food). He works closely with Kate Tolo, his Chief Marketing Officer, who seems a combination of companion and majordomo. While his initial online presence was not huge, an article by Ashlee Vance (who co-produced Don’t Die) turned Johnson into a viral sensation, generating both positive interest and hate. In this shift, Johnson rose as an almost cult figure. 

People bought many products Johnson consumes with direct links from his website to Amazon. Eventually, he produced and promoted Brian Johnson’s Blueprint Extra Virgin Olive Oil, resulting in accusations of Johnson as a grifter. The undertaking led to “Don’t Die” events, including hikes and dances. Held around the world, Johnson has gathered many followers. 

The talking heads range from medical professionals (doctors, scientists, etc.), some of whom support the work, and others who see it as a waste of money and resources. These contrast with social media pundits, the majority of whom are pointedly negative. Vance’s strong presence alternates between marveling at Johnson’s audacity and questioning his actions. Johnson’s parents are prominently featured but add little insight into who he really is.

At just under an hour and a half, the film seems overlong and repetitive. The unending stream of medium shots and generic footage of weightlifting, pill-taking, and laboratory visits would be more engaging if only Johnson possessed a modicum of charisma. But something is lacking at his core. Even his comments about the greater good can be reduced to a bizarre trickle-down theory. 

Perhaps his entire gestalt is summed up with his bold but problematic statement: “Our minds, which we think are our primary tool of problem-solving, are actually the source of self-destructive behaviors. I would argue the mind is dead.” 

At best, Don’t Die documents one man’s quest for immortality. At worst, it is a portrait of the power of excessive narcissism fueled by vast wealth. Or, as one scientist states: “It’s not science. It’s just attention.”

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Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole

MEET GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE!

This week’s featured shelter pet is Green Bean Casserole, a 6-year-old female brown tabby cat at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Green Bean was one of several cats abandoned when their pet parents moved. This shy little lady with stunning green eyes will need a little patience before she can trust. She is used to living with multiple cats and can be adopted alone or with one of her housemates.

If you are interested in meeting Green Bean, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). 

For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

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MUSIC FOR A NEW ERA The Confero Clarinet Trio — from left, Anita Balazs, Misuzu Tanaka and Maxim Shtrykov — present a concert at the Huntington Jewish Center on Jan. 19. Photo by Denis Gostev
Thursday Jan. 16

Lunch & Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with A 1920’s “Evening at the Theatre” with Marsha Collock, curator at the Village of Babylon Historical Society at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Attention all flappers and sheiks! Travel back in time to 1923 for a night out at the theatre in Huntington. Gentlemen, grab your fedora and ladies, straighten your seams for a little history, a little vaudeville, a few films and a grand afternoon out. It will be the cat’s meow! Tickets are $55, $45 members and includes  a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

James Cagney Lecture

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport presents The Versatile James Cagney at 2 p.m.  James Cagney is best remembered as a tough guy and gangster in films such as The Public Enemy and Angels with Dirty Faces. Critics and audiences alike have considered his Academy Award-winning performance as George M. Cohan in Yankee Doodle Dandy to be his best film. His career spanned from vaudeville, musicals, and revues on Broadway in the 1920s, to a forty-year career in films. Join lecturer Marc Courtade for a special remembrance of this unique and versatile performer. To register, call 631-261-6930.

Atelier Art Reception

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 6 & 9, St. James invites the community to an opening reception for its limited Artist Studio Clean-Out Exhibition from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This show will include accessible artworks by the Atelier & students and instructors. All pieces on display will be priced under $500 and sized 18×24 or smaller. Coffee, cupcakes and cookies will be served. The show runs through Feb. 6. For more information, call 631-250-9009.

Audubon Society Lecture

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for its winter presentation, Birding to Change the World, via Zoom at 7 p.m. Guest speaker Trish O’Kane, author of Birding to Change the World: A Memoir, will share what birds can teach us about life, social change, and protecting the environment. To register, visit www.4has.org.

Friday Jan. 17

HAC Art Reception

Rescheduled from Jan. 10. Huntington Arts Council invites the community to its Master’s Showcase artist reception at the Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call 631-271-8423.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook invites the community to the opening reception of “Being Human,” their latest exhibition by renowned Long Island-based artist Charles Wildbank,  from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Meet the artist and enjoy the breathtaking exhibition over light refreshments. This event is free to attend and open to the public, with no reservations required. 631-751-7707

Saturday Jan. 18

Defensive Driving Class
Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station offers a Defensive Driving course from 9:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost: $35.00. For more information, and to reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Maple Sugaring Workshop

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington hosts a Maple Sugaring workshop from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This interactive program, geared for the average adult, will teach you how to identify and tap a maple tree so you can make real maple syrup at home. You will also learn the culture, historical, economical, and scientific background of this uniquely American Craft. Very short walk. Not recommended for children. $4 per person, Call 423-1770 for reservations.

Model Train Show

TMB Model Train Club at the Upper Room Church, 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills hosts a Model Train Show Open House today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Jan. 19 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy  multiple trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains running at all times. Fun for the whole family. Free admission. www.tmbmodeltrainclub.com

Superheroes of the Sky

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Superheroes of the Sky from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s Birds of Prey and tells you about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing and learning about Bald Eagles, Turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. $10 per adult, $5 per child under age 12. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Port Jefferson Ice Festival – *This event has been postponed to Jan 25 and 26

Port Jefferson Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce presents the 6th annual Port Jefferson Ice Festival today and Jan. 19 from noon to 5 p.m. featuring ice carving demonstrations by Guinness World Record Holder Richard Daly.  Fun, interactive ice displays, free tractor rides and new this year, Rolling Raoke’s Karaoke Bus! Inclement weather dates are Jan. 25 and 26. 631-473-1414

Sunday Jan. 19

Model Train Show

See Jan. 18 listing.

Port Jefferson Ice Festival – Postponed

See Jan. 18 listing.

LITMA Contradance – This event has been canceled.

Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown hosts a LITMA Contradance at 2 p.m. with basic instruction at 1:45 p.m. Caller will be Bob Isaacs and the band for the dance will be The LITMA Contra Band. Admission is $15, $10 LITMA members, $7.50 students. Children under 16 are free with a paid adult. Please bring a friend (or two) and snacks to share at the break. 631-369-7854

Janice Buckner in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Janice Buckner from 3 to 4 p.m.  The singer/songwriter is known for her original songs, puppetry, use of Sign Language, and movement. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org 

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto Concert: Music for a New Era featuring The Confero Clarinet Trio at 4 p.m. Program will include works by Beethoven, Brahms and more. Margaretha Maimone will narrate. Ticket are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. To order, call 631-385-0373 or email [email protected].

Monday Jan. 20

MLK Luncheon

Town of Brookhaven will hold its annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Remembrance Luncheon at the Bellport Golf Club, 20 South Country Road, Bellport from noon to 3 p.m. with guest speakers, scholarship award presentations, and an onsite community service project. Lunch will be provided. Suggested donation is $20 adults, $5 kids and youth. For more information, call 631-451-6963.

Tuesday Jan. 21

Estate Planning Seminar

Join Burner Law for  Estate Planning Tools for Family Caregivers at Port Jefferson Free Library’s Meeting Room, 100 Thompson Street, Port Jefferson at 1 p.m. Brittni Sullivan, Esq. will give an insightful discussion on the importance of estate planning, explain key tools such as health care proxies and the roles of agents, trustees, and executors, and help family caregivers recognize when estate planning documents may need to be updated. Free. To register, email [email protected]. 

Wednesday Jan. 22

Wool Felting Workshop

Join the Huntington Historical Society for a Penguin Needle Felted workshop at the Conklin Barn 2 High St., Huntington from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Learn the creative art of wool felting! Your instructor, Michele Miroff, will provide all materials and guide you through creating an adorable wool-felted penguin. Materials included, felting needle yours to keep. $40 per person, $35 members. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Thursday Jan. 23

Reduce Your Energy Bill
PSEG’s Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP) program is free for income-eligible
customers. Drop by Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and speak with a PSEG representative to learn how REAP can help you save energy and reduce your electric bills. No registration required. 631-928-1212

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts Native American Drumming Meditation workshop from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

The Parlor of Mystery

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents an evening of magic and wonder with The Parlor of Mystery at 8 p.m. This captivating show promises an unparalleled experience that combines mind-bending illusions, jaw-dropping magic, and side-splitting comedy. Featuring Bob Baker, Carl Mercurio and host Mike Maione. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Film

‘Twisters’
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station to watch Twisters starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos on Jan. 16 from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘Dead Poet’s Society’

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station kicks off 2025 with a Movie Night featuring a screening of Dead Poet’s Society on Jan. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Bring your own blankets. Popcorn and hot cocoa will be served. Free admission, $10 suggested donation. To RSVP, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

‘The Sixth Sense’

“I see dead people!” Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a screening of The Sixth Sense on Jan. 17 at 9:30 p.m. When Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a distinguished child psychologist, meets Cole Sear, a frightened, confused, eight-year-old, Dr. Crowe is completely unprepared to face the truth of what haunts Cole. Dr. Crowe soon discovers that Cole has incredible sixth, he is visited by ghosts. The breakout film from director M. Night Shyamalan earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘Crossing Delancey’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 54th season with Susan Sandler’s Crossing Delancey from Jan. 18 to Feb. 9. Isabel is an independent young woman living alone and working in a book shop. When not pining after a handsome author, she visits her grandmother in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This spunky granny and her friend the matchmaker have found a “good catch” for Izzy, whose initial reluctance gives way to a blossoming romance when she finally meets Sam, the pickle vendor. A sincere, delightful, and loving comedy. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” Tickets start at $80. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘(Mostly) True Things’

(Mostly) True Things Storytelling show kicks off Valentine’s Day month with an all-comedy line-up of storytellers sharing true tales on the theme Bad Romance at The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St., Port Jefferson on Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. Featuring Ivy Eisenberg, Bryan Berlin, Brian Grossi, Sean Brown, Tracey Segarra and host Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to the end of April. 631-802-216

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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METRO photo
Don’t fall victim to Quitters Day

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

It’s a shiny new year, full of possibilities. To harness the energy that accompanies flipping the calendar page, many of us have started to eat healthier, to work out more, or to manage our stress differently. Terrific!

To help us along the way, there are oodles of weight loss plans, apps, memberships and other tools on the market to help us achieve our resolutions. Still, January 10 is “Quitters Day” this year. This is the day by which most of us will abandon our plans to develop new habits. Giving up on our resolutions is so ubiquitous, it now has a designated day. Changing habits is always hard. There are some things that you can do to make it easier, though. 

Set a simple, singular goal

We often overdo it by focusing on an array of habits, like eating, exercising, sleep routines, and stress management. While these are all worthy, their complexity diminishes your chances of success. Instead, pick one outcome to focus on, and limit the number of habits involved, for example: “increase my energy by eating better and moving more.”

Consider your environment

According to David Katz, M.D., Director, Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center, successfully changing a habit is more about your environment than it is about willpower. Willpower, Dr. Katz notes, is analogous to holding your breath underwater; you can only do it for a short time. Instead, he suggests laying the groundwork by altering your environment to make it conducive to attaining your goals. Recognizing your obstacles and making plans to avoid or overcome them reduces stress and strain on your willpower. 

According to a study, people with the most self-control use the least amount of willpower, because they take a proactive role in minimizing temptation (1). If your intention is to eat better, start by changing the environment in your kitchen to one that prompts healthy food choices.

Build a supportive network

Support is another critical element. People do best when family members, friends and coworkers help reinforce their new behaviors. In my practice, I find that patients who are most successful with lifestyle changes are those whose household members encourage them or, even better, when they participate, such as eating the same meals.

METRO photo

How long does it take to build a new habit?

Conventional wisdom used to tell us that it takes about three weeks of daily practice. However, a University of London study showed that the time to form a habit, such as exercising, ranged from 18 days to 254 days (2). The good news is that, though there was a wide variance, the average time to reach this automaticity was 66 days, or about two months.

How do you choose the best diet?

US News and World Report ranks diets annually and sorts them by objective, such as weight loss, healthy eating, diabetes, heart health, etc. (3). Three of the diets highlighted include the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet, and the Flexitarian diet, in rank order.

What do all the top diets have in common? They focus on nutrient-dense foods, they are sustainable, they are flexible, and they are supported by research. For these reasons, the lifestyle modifications I recommend are based on a combination of the top diets and the evidence-based medicine that supports them.

For instance, in a randomized cross-over trial, which means patients, after a prescribed time, can switch to the more effective group, showed that the DASH diet is not just for patients with high blood pressure. The DASH diet was more beneficial than the control diet for diabetes, decreasing hemoglobin A1C 1.7 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively; weight loss, with patients losing 5 kg/11 lbs. vs. 2 kg/4.4 lbs. It also achieved better results with HDL (“good”) cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and blood pressure (4).

Interestingly, patients lost weight, although caloric intake and the percentages of fats, protein and carbohydrates were the same between the DASH and control diets. However, the DASH diet used different sources of macronutrients. The DASH diet also contained food with higher amounts of fiber, calcium and potassium and lower sodium than the control diet.  

Final Tip: Don’t try to do too much at once

Here’s one more tip: take it day by day and celebrate small wins. In my experience, many patients make better progress by choosing to change one meal at a time – like starting with what they eat for breakfast or for lunch each day. Once this is a habit, they alter another meal or their between-meal snacks.

Here’s to your optimal health in 2025!

References

(1) J Pers Soc Psychol. 2012;102: 22-31. (2) Eur J of Social Psych, 40: 998–1009. (3) health.usnews.com/best-diet. (4) Diabetes Care. 2011;34: 55-57.

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 or consult your personal physician.

 

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MUSIC FOR THE SOUL Internationally award-winning clarinetist Kathryn Vetter will present a free concert at All Souls Church in Stony Brook on Jan. 11.
Thursday Jan. 9

Crafts & Cocktails

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor continues its Crafts & Cocktails series with Tranquili-TEA at 6:30 p.m. ​Cozy up with us this winter to explore the thrilling history and surprising uses of tea! Discover how this drink changed the world and learn how drinking — or bathing — in tea may offer surprising benefits. Enjoy a Hot Toddy as you create your own tea-infused bath salts and body scrub to take home with you. $35 per person, $25 member. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Inside the CIA

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station presents Inside the CIA from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. It’s not like the movies! Join former CIA officer Lester Paldy to learn about the Central Intelligence Agency’s mission, organization, and more. Open to all. To register, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

Michael Serraino in concert

Northport Arts Coalition presents Michael Serraino in concert at the Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport at 7 p.m. The pianist and vocalist trained in jazz, pop, and blues stylings will present his musical interpretations of the Great American Songbook as well as pop artists and singer-songwriter greats like Billy Joel, Elton John, and Barry Manilow. To register, call 631-261-6930.

Friday Jan. 10

HAC Art Reception – This event has been rescheduled to Jan. 17. 

Huntington Arts Council invites the community to its Master’s Showcase artist reception at the Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call 631-271-8423.

Adult Game Night

Celebrate St. James hosts a game night for adults at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy a fun night out with board games, card games, pizza, light refreshments and a hot chocolate bar. $15 donation. For tickets and more information, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket welcomes singer-songwriter Sam Robbins in concert at 8:15 p.m. Sam Robbins is often described as an “old soul singer-songwriter,” adding a modern, upbeat edge to the troubadour persona. Doors open at 7 p.m. with an open mic at 7:30 p.m.   Open mic starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org, by calling 631-751-0297. Tickets are also available at the door on the evening of the event.  Snacks and soft drinks available for purchase; please bring your own wine for uncorking at the snack bar.

An Evening of Opera

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main St., Northport hosts a concert by Opera Night Long Island at 7:30 p.m. followed by a reception in the Fireside Lounge. $10 donation, students free. 631-261-8808

Saturday Jan. 11

Winter Wonderland Walks

It doesn’t have to be summer to enjoy the beach! The Town of Brookhaven will hold a Winter Wonderland Walk at the West Meadow Beach Pavilion in Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and at the Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mount Sinai at 2 p.m. Participants will discuss and observe the stark beauty of the beach and salt marsh in the cold season, discuss wildlife adaptations, identify plants and observe active winter wetlands. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Second Saturdays Poetry Reading

The Second Saturdays poetry series returns to historic All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon.  Jay Jii will be the featured poet followed by an open reading; all are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, please call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

Wilderness Survival Workshop

The Vanderbilt Museum 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off a 7-part Wilderness Survival Series with Ranger Eric Powers and Mike Evans today at 2 p.m.  and runs  once a month through July 12. Each workshop focuses on specific skills such as making cordage, shelter building, purifying water, and toolmaking. Perfect for those starting their survival skills journey or looking to deepen existing skills, these workshops offer a platform to learn, share experiences, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. $50 per person, $45 members. To reserve your spot, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Saturdays at Six Concert

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six concert series with Stony Brook University doctorate alumnus Kathryn Vetter (clarinet/bass clarinet) at 6 p.m. The concert will feature works by living composers with a variety of musical styles, ranging from traditional classical music to contemporary classical works. Free. Please bring a can of food to donate if you want to help feed the hungry in our community. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Sunday Jan. 12

Homegrown String Band Concert

The Homegrown String Band will be celebrating their 28th anniversary performing as a family with a concert on Sunday, Jan. 12 at Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main Street, Setauket at 2 p.m. Enjoy songs by the likes of the Carter Family, the Delmore Brothers, and Jimmie Rodgers, along with a tasty sprinkling of original material inspired by the rural American string band and folk traditions of the nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first centuries. Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. To register, please call 631-941-4080.

Hokis Pokis in concert

The magic’s in the music! Long Island recording artists Hokis Pokis hit the stage with their incredible live performances of doo-wop, disco, Motown, and soul at Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station from 1:30 p.m to 3 p.m. Seating is limited. To register, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

Take 2 in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Take 2 from 3 to 4 p.m.   Candice Baranello and James O’Malley present contemporary acoustic, originals and folk music. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org 

Astronomy Night at Avalon

Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook will host an Astronomy Night at its Skylab at Avalon Barn off Shep Jones Lane (Access is only available from 25A / North Country due to the Harbor Road closure) from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Enjoy a live observing session (weather permitting) focusing on the Moon, Jupiter, Mars, and many wintertime nebulae . Free. No registration necessary. 631-689-0619

Monday Jan. 13

Book Launch Party

The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills will host a book launch event with author Yakov Saacks at 7 p.m. Join them for an insightful conversation with the author on his new book, Prescription for the Peace of Mind and enjoy a dessert bar. Autographed books will be available for sale. The event is free. RSVP requested here.

Tuesday Jan. 14

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday Jan. 15

Lonesome Traveler Musical

Lonesome Traveler, a narrative musical about legendary folk groups The Weavers and The Almanac Singers and featuring the songs of iconic folk singers Lee Hays, Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger will be performed by Ira Perlman and Denise Romas during the monthly Hard Luck Café concert 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 p.m. to 10 p.m. Singer and guitarist Bill Lauter will open for the show.  An open mic, for which sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m., precedes the 8 p.m. show. Tickets are $20, $15 for Cinema Arts Centre/FMSH members and may be purchased online at cinemaartscentre.org or at the box office.

Thursday Jan. 16

Lunch & Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with A 1920’s “Evening at the Theatre” with Marsha Collock, curator at the Village of Babylon Historical Society at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Attention all flappers and sheiks! Travel back in time to 1923 for a night out at the theatre in Huntington. Gentlemen, grab your fedora and ladies, straighten your seams for a little history, a little vaudeville, a few films and a grand afternoon out. It will be the cat’s meow! Tickets are $55, $45 members and includes  a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

James Cagney Lecture

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport presents The Versatile James Cagney at 2 p.m.  James Cagney is best remembered as a tough guy and gangster in films such as The Public Enemy and Angels with Dirty Faces. Critics and audiences alike have considered his Academy Award-winning performance as George M. Cohan in Yankee Doodle Dandy to be his best film. His career spanned from vaudeville, musicals, and revues on Broadway in the 1920s, to a forty-year career in films. Join lecturer Marc Courtade for a special remembrance of this unique and versatile performer. To register, call 631-261-6930.

Atelier Art Reception

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 6 & 9, St. James invites the community to an opening reception for its limited Artist Studio Clean-Out Exhibition from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This show will include accessible artworks by the Atelier & students and instructors. All pieces on display will be priced under $500 and sized 18×24 or smaller. Coffee, cupcakes and cookies will be served. The show runs through Feb. 6. For more information, call 631-250-9009.

Audubon Society Lecture

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for its winter presentation, Birding to Change the World, via Zoom at 7 p.m. Guest speaker Trish O’Kane, author of Birding to Change the World: A Memoir, will share what birds can teach us about life, social change, and protecting the environment. To register, visit www.4has.org.

Film

All Night Horror Marathon

The CAC Screen Society presents a new all-night horror movie marathon at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on Jan. 11 starting at 9:30 p.m. The marathon will feature screenings of 5 horror classics: The Toxic Avenger (1984), Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979), Society (1989), Phantasm (1979) & a bonus mystery film. Tickets are $50, $40 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Dead Poet’s Society’

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station kicks off 2025 with a Movie Night featuring a screening of Dead Poet’s Society on Jan. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Bring your own blankets. Popcorn and hot cocoa will be served. Free admission, $10 suggested donation. To RSVP, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

‘The Sixth Sense’

“I see dead people!” Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a screening of The Sixth Sense on Jan. 17 at 9:30 p.m. When Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a distinguished child psychologist, meets Cole Sear, a frightened, confused, eight-year-old, Dr. Crowe is completely unprepared to face the truth of what haunts Cole. Dr. Crowe soon discovers that Cole has incredible sixth, he is visited by ghosts. The breakout film from director M. Night Shyamalan earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘Forbidden Broadway’

Productions Over the Rainbow presents a mainstage production of Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits at Seneca Middle School, 850 Main At., Holbrook on Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and includes coffee, tea and dessert during intermission. To order, visit https://potr.ludus.com.

‘Crossing Delancey’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 54th season with Susan Sandler’s Crossing Delancey from Jan. 18 to Feb. 9. Isabel is an independent young woman living alone and working in a book shop. When not pining after a handsome author, she visits her grandmother in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This spunky granny and her friend the matchmaker have found a “good catch” for Izzy, whose initial reluctance gives way to a blossoming romance when she finally meets Sam, the pickle vendor. A sincere, delightful, and loving comedy — fresh, timeless, and heart-warming.  Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” Tickets start at $80. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘(Mostly) True Things’

(Mostly) True Things Storytelling show kicks off Valentine’s Day month with an all-comedy line-up of storytellers sharing true tales on the theme Bad Romance at The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St., Port Jefferson on Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. Featuring Ivy Eisenberg, Bryan Berlin, Brian Grossi, Sean Brown, and host Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to the end of April. 631-802-216

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Semolina and Almond Biscotti

Cookies are a treat any time of the day, and many find biscotti particularly appealing. These crunchy cookies are equally at home with a morning cup of coffee as they are with an evening mug of hot cocoa. Biscotti are hard, crunchy, Italian cookies that are baked twice. In fact, their name comes from the Latin “bis,” meaning “twice,” and “coctus,” meaning “cooked.”

Although they can be enjoyed on their own, their dry, crunchy nature makes them hold up well when dunked into a beverage. Biscotti were even once commonly dipped into red wine. Though they might seem complicated, biscotti generally are easy to make. Try this recipe for “Semolina and Almond Biscotti” from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.

Semolina and Almond Biscotti

YIELD: Makes 12 to 16 cookies

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup sugar

1⁄2 cup melted butter

3 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 pinch salt

2 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup sliced almonds

1⁄2 cup semolina flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Optional: 10 ounces dark chocolate to melt for dipping

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and salt. Mix to incorporate. Add the all-purpose flour, almonds, semolina flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix. Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Pat gently to form one long loaf of dough roughly 14 to 16 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide. Bake 30 minutes.

Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool 5 to 6 minutes before using a long knife to cut the loaf gently into 12 to 16 cookies. Lay each cookie on its side and bake another 20 minutes, flipping the cookies midway through. Cool completely to achieve that signature crunch. The centers will be a bit soft if eaten warm. These are perfect for dunking in coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

Optional: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts and gently dip half of each biscotti into it lengthwise. Flip the biscotti chocolate-side-up onto a sheet tray and allow the chocolate to set.

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Nellie Tayloe Ross

The month of January has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in January 1925.

• Christiania, the capital city of Norway, is renamed “Oslo” on January 1.

• Violence plagues Italy on January 2 as part of the fallout of Benito Mussolini’s crackdown on opposition newspapers. Though King Victor Emmanuel III refuses to grant Mussolini the dictatorial powers the latter requested, he grants the Prime Minister tacit permission to respond to the violence how he sees fit.

• Nellie Tayloe Ross is inaugurated as the Governor of Wyoming on January 5, becoming the first woman elected to a gubernatorial office in United States history.

• Bhanupratap Deo is proclaimed as the new Raja of the princely state of Kanker within British India on January 8. The 3-year-old would rule until 1947, when the princely states are abolished as India gains its independence.

• The British submarine HMS L24 sinks in the English channel on January 10. The submarine had collided with the Royal Navy battleship HMS Resolution, killing all 43 men aboard the L24.

Al Capone

• Al Capone survives an assassination attempt made by the North Side Gang on January 12 in Chicago. Capone was conducting business inside a State Street restaurant when the rival gang riddled his car with bullets, prompting the mobster to order a bulletproof Cadillac.

• Joseph Stalin fires Leon Trotsky as Commissar for Military and Navy Affairs on January 15. A prominent critic of Stalin, Trotsky is eventually murdered at his home in Mexico City by a Stalinist agent in 1940.

• Huddie Ledbetter, better known as “Lead Belly,” is granted a full pardon by Texas governor Pat Morris Neff on January 16. The blues musician had served seven years of his prison sentence after being found guilty of killing a relative over a fight for a woman.

• “The Gentleman Bandit” Gerald Chapman is arrested in Muncie, Indiana on January 18. Chapman is apprehended thanks in part to informant Ben Hance, who is murdered in August in a killing that is believed to have been performed as retaliation for Chapman’s incarceration.

• Roy Olmstead, a lieutenant in the Seattle Police Department, is indicted by a federal grand jury on January 19. Olmstead is accused of smuggling alcohol into the country from Canada in violation of the Volstead Act.

• Curtis Welch, the only doctor in Nome, Alaska, sends an urgent message via radio telegram on January 22. The message alerts all major Alaskan towns of an impending outbreak of diphtheria, while a second message sent to the U.S. Public Health Service in Washington, D.C. highlights the desperate need for antitoxin. Roughly 300,000 units of antitoxin are discovered in Anchorage on January 26, temporarily containing the epidemic.

• Paul Newman is born in Shaker Heights, Ohio, on January 26. The son of Theresa Garth and sporting goods store owner Arthur Sigmund Newman, Sr., the younger Newman would grow up to become one of the world’s most recognizable movie stars and a devoted philanthropist.

• A riot breaks out in Berlin on January 27. Numerous injuries are reported as monarchists, communists and republicans clash during demonstrations held on the birthday of ex-kaiser Wilhelm II.

• On January 28, nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court Harlan Fiske Stone testifies before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. Stone is eventually confirmed by a vote of 71 to 6.

• After nearly a year of fighting and 14,000 deaths, the Khost rebellion against King Amanullah Khan is ended in Afghanistan on January 30. The rebellion is ultimately unsuccessful, but many of the king’s reforms are delayed until 1928.

Source: MetroCreative Connection

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