LINDENHURST Holiday Guide
LETTER FROM THE MAYOR
Dear Friends,
As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to encourage everyone to continue supporting our local businesses and make this year’s celebrations even more meaningful by shopping and dining in our vibrant Lindenhurst Downtown Business District.
Our Downtown continues to thrive thanks to the incredible dedication of our local business owners, restaurants, and service providers. By choosing to shop and dine locally, you’re not only finding oneof-a-kind gifts, delicious treats, and festive experiences—you’re also helping sustain the heart of our community. Every purchase made downtown helps create jobs, supports local families, and strengthens the very fabric of our Village.
This holiday season, let’s make it a priority to shop local, dine local, and celebrate local. Take time to visit the wonderful small businesses that make Lindenhurst so special. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift, enjoying a festive meal with loved ones, or simply soaking in the seasonal cheer, you’ll find everything you need right here in the heart of our Village.
To add even more joy to the season, we’ve planned a number of exciting community events, including “Winter on Wellwood” (November 30th) and our annual New Year’s Eve Celebration (December 31st). These family-friendly traditions are a great way to share in the holiday spirit while supporting our downtown community.
I encourage you to take a stroll through Downtown Lindenhurst and experience firsthand the warmth, charm, and togetherness that make our Village so special. Thank you for your continued support of our small businesses—together, we can make this a truly memorable season for everyone in Lindenhurst.
Wishing you and your family a joyful, healthy, and festive holiday season!
Sincerely,
MICHAEL A. LAVORATA Mayor
As the holiday season approaches—a time of gratitude, reflection, and connection—I am filled with appreciation for the incredible spirit of our community and the people who make it thrive. Serving as your Chamber of Commerce President for 28 years has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. Together, we’ve navigated change, celebrated growth, and strengthened the bonds that make our town such a special place to live, work, and do business.
This year marks an important transition for the Chamber. I will be stepping aside as President and passing the gavel to our newly elected Chamber President, Marie Seaquist whose energy and vision will continue to move us forward. I’m deeply confident in her leadership and in the Chamber’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses, fostering innovation, and keeping our community strong and connected.
While I will no longer serve as Chamber President, I’m honored to continue as President Emeritus—offering support and guidance as we ensure a seamless transition for our members and partners. The Chamber’s strength lies in collaboration, and I know that by working together, we will keep building opportunities for everyone in our community.
This new chapter also allows me to focus more fully on my real estate business—a passion that has always been about helping people achieve their dreams of home ownership. There is nothing more rewarding than handing someone the keys to their new home and knowing that I’ve helped them find their place in this wonderful community.
As we celebrate the holidays and look ahead to a bright new year, I encourage everyone to continue shopping locally, supporting small businesses, and lifting each other up. Our success—both individually and collectively—depends on the relationships we nurture and the community we build together.
Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your friendship. Here’s to a joyful holiday season and an exciting year ahead for all.
With gratitude and warm wishes,
JoAnn Boettcher
Outgoing President & President Emeritus Lindenhurst Chamber of Commerce
The Wonder of the Holidays
To see the world through a child’s eyes during the holidays is to truly believe in magic. – Unknown
Remember the excitement of being a child during the holidays?
Seeing the lights all around town, everyone in a festive mood, and the wonderful smells of baked cookies, bread, and cakes coming from the kitchen?
Take time this week to rediscover the joy of believing, the wonder of giving, and the simple pleasures of time spent with loved ones.
And you can nd it ALL in Lindenhurst!
With my deepest gratitude,
JoAnn
JOANN CILLA
Licensed Real Estate Broker
203 E. Montauk Hwy.
Lindenhurst, NY 11757
Office: 631-539-6000
Cell: 516-429-1911
joann@joanncillarealestate.com www.joanncillarealestate.com
APPETIZERS
Stuffed
Stuffed Shrimp $15.95 $16.59
SPREADS & DIPS
Served With Pita
Hummus (Ground Chickpeas)
$8.95 $9.31
Tzatiziki (Yougurt Sauce) ............... $10.95 ... $11.39 Baba
HAMBURGERS
Cheese or Bacon
SIDE ORDERS
French Fries • French Fries With Cheese Sweet Potato Fries • Onion Rings Lemon Potatoes • Yogurt Sauce (4 oz.) Pita Bread • Feta Cheese (4 oz.) • Rice Anchovies • Avgolemono Soup
BLT (Bacon, Lettuce & Tomato)
Grilled American Cheese (With Tomato • With Bacon • With Bacon & Tomato)
GREEK PIZZA
LINDENHURST REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE
We Wish You and Yours a Joyous Holiday Season!
Michael A. Lavorata MAYOR
Richard J. Renna DEPUTY MAYOR
Douglas Madlon
Patrick M. Pichichero
Maryann Weckerle VILLAGE TRUSTEES
H. John Bopp VILLAGE JUSTICE
Joseph Barone
VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
Kathleen Schrader VILLAGE CLERK
Katherine McCaffrey DEPUTY VILLAGE CLERK
Brianna Bartolotta
VILLAGE BOARD SECRETARY
Gerard Glass
VILLAGE ATTORNEY Have a Healthy and Happy New Year 2026!...The Lavorata Team
(Left to Right) Trustee Maryann Weckerle, Trustee Doug Madlon, Mayor Mike Lavorata Deputy Mayor RJ Renna, and Trustee Pat Pichichero
Mayor Mike Lavorata
Village Judge H. John Bopp
Healthy Holiday Recipe Swaps
Althoughpresents garner most of the fanfare during the holiday season, there is no denying that food and entertaining also play a prominent role this time of year. Delish magazine reports that Christmas food consumption ranks third, behind Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday, among Americans, and that a single Christmas meal can weigh in at 3,000 calories, not factoring in any other food consumed that day.
No one wants to feel held back while having fun with family and friends, but smart
food choices can mean healthier living during this season of festivities—dish up these alternatives when holiday entertaining.
• Lean on leaner cuts of meat. A strong body is built on protein, and holiday hosts often make a meat or poultry dish the star of the holiday dinner table. When selecting holiday fare, choose leaner options such as “round” or “loin” roasts; otherwise, select whitefleshed fish and skinless poultry in lieu of other options.
• Use broths instead of
creams. Soups and gravies are popular this time of year, and both can be made healthier by opting for stock or broth bases over more fattening milks or creams when creating these recipes.
• Create a one-crust pie. Pie is one of the more popular holiday desserts, and plenty of the calories come from a rich, buttery crust. Lighten up by serving a one-crust pie, such as pumpkin or sweet potato. Fruit-based pies like apple or blueberry can also be made with one crust. Simply top the fruit with a light crumb coating.
• Find ways to incorporate vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients. Many are also high in fiber, so they can help people avoid overeating. According to dietary experts from the American Heart Association, people should aim for four to five servings of vegetables each day. When making a plate, fill half of the plate with vegetables. Enhance dishes like lasagna or other pastas with fresh vegetables as well.
• Skip the fried bird. Although deep-frying a turkey can reduce cooking time, frying historically is not the best cooking method for those who are making health-conscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use fresh herbs and seasonings instead of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well.
• Skip the cocktails. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that classic cocktails with little to no added sugar typically fall into the 150- to 200-calorie range, while others can be about 200 to 300 calories each. Many people will want to save those extra calories for dessert or another indulgent dish rather than drinking them away. If you want to simulate a cocktail, make a spritzer with sparkling water and unsweetened cranberry juice.
The Many Reasons To Support Small Business Saturday
Small business is big business across much of North America. According to a 2024 report from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, nearly 98 percent of all businesses in Canada are small businesses, which the Government of Canada defines as firms with one to 99 paid employees. Small businesses boast an equally notable presence in the United States, where the Small Business Administration reports such establishments account for 99 percent of the nation’s firms.
With such a profound presence in both Canada and the United States, it’s no wonder small businesses are championed at a point in time when shopping takes center stage. Small Business Saturday occurs each year on the Saturday after American Thanksgiving, making it part of a weekend that is often characterized as the start of the holiday shopping season. With small businesses set to take their well-earned turn in the spotlight, consumers can ponder the many reasons to support Small Business Saturday this year.
• Small businesses are significant employers. The term “small business” can be misleading, particularly in terms of job creation. While small businesses are generally described as firms with fewer than 500 employees, recent data from the SBA indicated
small companies accounted for two-thirds of employment growth across the U.S. over the last quarter-century, ultimately generating around 13 million jobs during that time period. Small businesses are also big-time employers in Canada, where the ISEDC notes such firms employed 46.5 percent of the nation’s total private labor force in 2023. Those jobs are filled by consumers’ family members, friends, and neighbors, and supporting these employers ensures that those individuals can keep earning.
• Small businesses help to fund vital local
services. Another notable reason to support small businesses is their role in creating strong local tax bases. The revenue generated by successful, local small businesses strengthens communities because it translates into tax income for local towns, which benefits schools, community organizations, and public safety.
• Small business spending is more likely to stay in the local community. Another way supporting small businesses benefits communities relates to where consumers’ dollars go once they’re spent. Data from the American Independent Business Alliance indicates that
48 percent of each purchase at a local independent business was recirculated locally. By comparison, just 14 percent of purchases at chain stores were recirculated locally. That means more than three times as much money is staying in communities when consumers buy from locally owned businesses compared to chain retailers.
There’s no shortage of reasons to support Small Business Saturday. This year, consumers can do their part and give local small businesses and the communities they call home their unwavering support by shopping local on Small Business Saturday.
One Lee Avenue, Lindenhurst NY 11757 631-957-7755 · info@lindenhurstlibrary org www.lindenhurstlibrary.org
ibrary Card thisYear
Having a library card gives you access to so much more than print and digital books, including:
Museum Passes to over 30 local and New York City museums
Thousands of audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, and movies through our digital collections
Hundreds of in-person programs throughout the year for all age groups and interests
Technological assistance on site including computers, printing, & fax machines
Online learning resources for language learning, craft and technology classes, and more
A growing Librar y of Things Collection including large outdoor games, Cricut machines, VCR/DVD converters, and much more
One-on-One appointments with our Social Work Intern for help navigating the social ser vices system
Scan the QR code for details or visit us in-person to apply for a library card today!
Thanksgiving Weekend Travel Tips
Thanksgiving is consistently one of the busiest travel holidays of the year. In fact, AAA indicates that, in the United States, it may be the most traveled of all the holidays, with record numbers of both drivers and air travelers. In 2024, nearly 80 million Americans were expected to travel over Thanksgiving weekend. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is a particularly busy day on the roads, but high volumes continue throughout the weekend.
A high demand for travel during this time of year means individuals wanting to see friends or family for Thanksgiving should plan accordingly. These tips, courtesy of AAA and the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA), can make Thanksgiving travel go more smoothly.
• Book flights early. If you are able, secure flights early in the day and use personal time off from work to fly in to a destination at the beginning of the week. The propensity for flights to be delayed or canceled increases as the day and week goes on. An early departure may increase the chances of a flight leaving on time. Also, the TSA reports that the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as the Sunday after, are the busiest days for Thanksgiving air travel. Choosing an alternative day to fly may mean smaller crowds and less stress.
• Consider TSA PreCheck®.
TSA PreCheck is a paid program that enables you to get through security lines faster. Interested parties must verify their identities through a thirdparty service that handles PreCheck applications, and await confirmation of approval. A TSA PreCheck member-ship lasts for five years. This membership offers consistent time savings at the airport with dedicated PreCheck lanes, and the benefit of keeping items like laptops and liquids in your bag.
• Consider traveling by train. If Amtrak services your destination, taking the train may be the least stressful way to travel over Thanksgiving. In addition to not having to navigate roadways or sit in traffic, you won’t face security screening like you will at
the airport. Once on the train, there is Wi-Fi, nice views and efficient travel. Trips booked in advance are more affordable than booking closer to the holiday.
• Pack light. Avoiding the baggage carousel can shave much time off of travel. Plus, there’s no risk of luggage getting diverted or not making it to your final destination. A carry-on bag is the way to go for ease, particularly if you must get on a different flight if the original one is delayed or canceled.
• Service your car. If road travel is planned for Thanksgiving, make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip. Be up-to-date on oil changes, make sure the tires are properly inflated
and double-check your emergency preparedness kit prior to leaving. It also may be a good idea to invest in AAA benefits, which afford extra peace of mind in the event of a breakdown as well as savings on travelrelated expenses, such as lodging.
• Pack your patience. In addition to your holiday essentials, it is wise to also pack some patience this Thanksgiving travel season. Leave extra time so you’re not racing to your destination and can calmly contend with people also looking to get home for the holidays.
Thanksgiving means turkey and trimmings, but also millions of people traveling to give thanks alongside those they love.
Mastering Black Friday Shopping
BlackFriday is one of the busiest and most profitable shopping days of the entire year. According to DemandSage and National Public Radio, American consumers spent a record $10.8 billion on online Black Friday shopping in 2024. Around $61 billion in total sales (both online and in-person) were made over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend. Consumers can land great deals on the day after Thanksgiving, which means individuals who hone their Black Friday shopping skills can reap considerable rewards. The following tips can help shoppers master Black Friday.
• Set a budget. Even though Black Friday may feature some hard-to-beat deals, it’s wise to determine how much you can afford to spend before you begin shopping. Shopping beyond your means, even if the prices are low, can exact a financial toll.
• Make a list of recipients.
Make a list of the people for whom you will be shopping and some ideas of what to give each individual. This will enable you to look out for particular deals on these items.
• Compare prices ahead of time. It’s important to know how much items cost across different retailers before Black Friday arrives to understand their true value. This will enable you to determine if a Black Friday sale really is a bargain or if it’s possible to get a better price at a different time. Smartphone apps like BuyVia, Shopkick and Shopular let you scan barcodes to compare prices and more.
• Shop online early. NPR says there has been a shift from traditional in-store shopping to online platforms for Black Friday. Many deals now begin on Thanksgiving or even earlier and fall under the Black Friday promotion. Start shopping at home to avoid large crowds and
they do in stores.
• Be wary of sneaky sales tactics. Some stores will offer “doorbuster” exclusions that highlight slashed prices and utilize marketing tactics like countdown timers to encourage shoppers to purchase items without doing their research. This is when knowing the true value of items can help you spot a deal or inflated prices that were then marked down.
• Limit your stores. If you choose to shop in person on Black Friday, start early in the day and don’t run yourself ragged. If you’re tired, you may not make the best decisions and could end up spending more than your budget allows.
secure limited time deals. In recent years, many retailers have offered more of the same promotions online as
Shopping smart on Black Friday comes down to employing some savvy financial strategies.
What is Plaid Friday?
Consumers are urged to shop locally as much as possible, as local merchants provide distinctive benefits over larger retailers, such as specialized products and superior customer service. Plaid Friday is one such day when communities strongly encourage residents to patronize local businesses. Plaid Friday occurs on the day after Thanksgiving. Many people recognize it as Black Friday, but Plaid Friday focuses on a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience that emphasizes community and the creativity of local businesses as opposed to the hectic pace of traditional Black Friday shopping. Plaid Friday originated in Oakland in 2009, when it was presented as an alternative to the frenzy of Black Friday. The “plaid” in the name symbolizes the weaving together of small businesses and individuals to form an interconnected community fabric.
Seasonal Sips
Craft A Cocktail With Seasonal Staples As The Star Ingredients
Holiday season parties are particularly festive affairs. The jovial spirt of the season lends itself to fun gatherings with family and friends. When welcoming loved ones at home this holiday season, hosts can consider some seasonal staples and craft a unique cocktail guests won’t soon forget. Pumpkin might be more synonymous with fall than winter, but cinnamon certainly has a place on holiday season dinner tables. This recipe for a “Pumpkin Martini Cocktail With Cinnamon” from Lines+Angles combines staple flavors of fall and winter into a delicious drink holiday celebrants will love.
Directions:
1. Pour the maple syrup in a saucer and put the graham cracker crumbs in a separate saucer. Dip the rims of 2 chilled martini glasses first into the simple syrup, then into the graham cracker crumbs.
2. Fill a shaker with ice and add the pumpkin spice liqueur, Baileys, vodka, and vanilla extract. Shake for 15 seconds and strain between the prepared glasses. Garnish each with a cinnamon stick.
Pumpkin Martini Cocktail With Cinnamon
Serves 2
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1⁄4 cup graham cracker crumbs
5 ounces pumpkin spice liqueur
2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream
2 ounces vodka
1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cinnamon sticks
The Perfect Treat To Indulge In This Holiday Season
There’smuch to look forward to come the holiday season. Celebrations with family and friends, awe-inspiring lighting displays and opportunities to see loved ones’ eyes light up after opening the perfect gift are just some of the many things that excite holiday celebrants. Foodies also have much to look forward to come the end of the year. Beginning on Thanksgiving and continuing through the new year, food figures prominently in holiday season celebrations. Indeed, everything from tasty appetizers to main courses to dessert excites holiday celebrants. Dessert is particularly appealing come the holiday season, when many people relax their dietary restrictions and indulge in some treats they tend to avoid during the rest of the year. Holiday hosts who want to ensure guests get as much indulgence as they can handle can try this recipe for “Chocolate Crumble Pie” courtesy of “Chocolate” (Love Food) by the editors at Parragon Books Ltd.
Chocolate Crumble Pie
Serves 8 for one 9-inch pie
Pie Dough
Scant 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1⁄4 cup superfine sugar
1 egg yolk
1 to 2 teaspoons cold water
Filling
2⁄3 cup heavy cream
2⁄3 cup milk
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 eggs
Crumble Topping
1⁄2 cup packed brown sugar
3⁄4 cup toasted pecans
4 ounces semisweet chocolate
3 ounces amaretti cookies
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa
Directions:
To make the pie dough, sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl, rub in the butter, and stir in the sugar, then add the egg and a little water to bring the dough together. Turn the dough out, and knead briefly. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Roll out the pie dough and use to line a 9-inch loose-button tart pan. Prick the pastry shell with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with dried beans or baking beans. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and take out the paper and beans. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 F.
To make the filling, bring the cream and milk to a boil in a saucepan, immediately remove from the heat, and add the chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. Beat the eggs and add to the chocolate mixture, mix thoroughly and pour into the shell. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from the oven, and let rest for 1 hour.
When you are ready to serve the pie, place the topping ingredients in a food processor and pulse to chop. (If you do not have a processor, place the sugar in a large bowl, chop the nuts and chocolate with a large knife, and crush the cookies, then add to the bowl with the cocoa and mix well.) Sprinkle over the pie, then serve it in slices.
Learn To Decorate Like A Holiday Pro
Thesights and sounds of the holiday season help to make this a special time of year that people look forward to. With its magical moments and opportunities to gather with family and friends, the holiday season is a period to celebrate and, of course, decorate. According to an informal poll from the decorating, culture, and travel experts at Veranda, 65 percent of respondents said that the time to decorate for Christmas is right after Thanksgiving or the first week of December. Many stores now display holiday decorations and other wares concurrently with Halloween and fall items, so people can plan their decorating early if they expect to be adding to their holiday collections.
These tips can help with decorating and make anyone deck the halls like a professional.
• Choose your theme and color palette. Consider a specific style of decorating, whether it’s traditional, minimalist, country, or even winter wonderland. Then select a few coordinating colors to complement the theme and existing items in your home. Pick up these items as they become available in stores, as holiday merchandise often goes quickly.
• Focus on a few key areas. While it’s tempting to decorate an entire home, pros know to focus on key areas like tables, doorways, and mantels to create the most visual interest. This also makes decorating more manageable.
• Rely on the rule of thirds. Create balanced and visually pleasing arrangements by dividing the space visually into nine equal parts, symbolically drawing two equally spaced horizontal and two equally spaced vertical lines. Designers often place important elements along these lines or at their intersections to create a more visually balanced and appealing composition. When grouping decorative items on shelves and tables, threes often look best.
• Remove clutter. It’s important to declutter a space prior to introducing holiday elements in order to create a clean and organized look. Store additional decorations and knick-knacks until after the holiday season.
• Start with lights. It’s often easier to decorate by beginning with lights first, and then weaving additional decorations into the mix. Build on lights with garlands and accent items.
• Less is often more. Keep the decorating simple. A few elements here and there can have a much more effective impact than
several things that draw attention away from one another. When taking out holiday decorations this year, use it as an opportunity to assess and cull the collection, which will make things easier next year.
Homeowners can decorate their spaces for the holidays effectively with some guidelines professional designers often use.
Turkey Traditional Dinner:
Thanksgiving Pre-Fixe
Caesar Salad • Verona Salad • Mozzarella Caprese
Artichoke Oreganata • Stracciatella Soup • Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Rice Balls • Eggplant Rollatini • Baked Clams • Calamari Fritti APPETIZERS (CHOOSE ONE) $49.95
ENTREES (CHOOSE ONE)
Served with Gravy, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberry Sauce, Baby Carrots, String Beans (Add Lasagna $6)
Chicken Valdostana:
Breaded Breast of Chicken topped with Prosciutto, Melted Mozzarella, Porcini Sauce, Served with Roasted Potatoes & Vegetables
Chicken Scarpariello:
Oven Roasted off the Bone with Sausage, Peppers, Mushrooms, Rosemary
Sole Portofino:
Parmesan Encrusted in Lemon White Wine Sauce, Served over Risotto
Salmon Fiorentina:
Fresh Salmon pan seared in a lemon beurre blanc Served over Spinach
Shrimp Scampi:
Garlic, butter, white wine and lemon, served over risotto with vegetables
Pollo: (Served with Vegetables)
Francese, Parmigiana, Marsala, Toscano Veal (+ $6): (Served with Vegetables)
Marsala, Parmigiana, Sorrentino, Piccata
Zucchini Linguini: (Vegan)
In a Spicy Marinara Sauce with Crispy Shitake Mushroom
DESSERTS
(CHOOSE ONE)
Cannoli • Tiramisu • Key Lime Pie Flourless Chocolate Cake
ASK ABOUT OUR DAILY CHEF SPECIALS
Thanksgiving DINNER
Take Out: 2 Guests $65 • 4 Guests $120 • 6 Guests $170
Roasted Turkey With Gravy
Stuffing • Sweet Potatoes • Cranberry Sauce
String Beans • Baby Carrots In Honey
Assorted Homemade Desserts
Add Lasagna For $6 Additional Per Person
*All Orders Must Be Picked Up By 3:00pm On Thanksgiving Day 11/27/25
Penne alla Vodka:
Shallots, Prosciutto, Vodka in Tomato Basil Sauce with a touch of cream
Pappardelle Bolognese:
Authentic Meat Sauce, Ricotta Cheese on Top Orecchiette alla Verona:
Imported Pasta Sautéed with Sausage, Sundried Tomatoes, Chick Peas, Rapini, Garlic and Oil
Porcini Risotto: (Vegetarian)
Risotto Tossed in Porcini Mushroom Sauce, Topped with Shaved Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan:
Baked in Marinara, topped with Melted Mozzarella, Served with Vegetables
Grilled Pork Chop (+ $6):
Topped with Mushrooms, Onions, Cherry Peppers, Served-Roasted Potato, Vegetables
Branzino Oreganata (+ $7):
Fresh Mediterranean Sea Bass Topped with Seasoned Breadcrumbs in a Lemon White Wine Sauce with Shrimp
Squid Ink Linguini (+ $7):
Tossed with Mussels, Calamari, Shrimp, Broccoli Rabe, Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Crispy Duck (+ $7):
Fresh Long Island Duck, Orange Cranberry Glaze, Served with Wild Rice & Vegetable
Steak (+ $10):
Grilled, topped with Asparagus and Melted Mozzarella in Barolo Wine
Sauce Served with Onion RIngs
Magic Of Lights® Returns To Dazzle Long Island This Holiday Season
Themost wonderful time of the year gets even brighter with the triumphant return of Magic of Lights. Jones Beach State Park and PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ, will once again be transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland featuring a spectacular drive-through light display and the enchanting Toyota Holiday Village. This beloved holiday tradition opens November 21 and continues through January 3.
Presented by Family Entertainment Live and Live Nation, Magic of Lights makes its highly anticipated return to Jones Beach State Park, Presented by Flagstar and PNC Bank Arts Center for the eighth consecutive year. This year Magic of Lights features the return of the Toyota Holiday Village, The longest light tunnel in Long Island and New Jersey, mesmerizing light displays, holiday favorites including, all-new Prehistoric Christmas scenes featuring dinosaurs celebrating the season, Holiday Barbie, photos with
Santa, special nightly events and more.
"Magic of Lights has become a beloved holiday tradition for families right here in the Tri-State area,” said Ken Hudgens, CEO of Family Entertainment Live. “We’re proud to return to both Jones Beach State Park and PNC Bank Arts Center and continue spreading the joy, wonder, and togetherness that make this season so special in our community.”
“The Magic of Lights Show continues to be an annual holiday tradition that exceeds attendee’s expectations," said George Gorman, JR-Regional Director-NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “ From the first light display through to the holiday village, the joys of the season come to life.
Experience the wonder of Magic of Lights' most treasured holiday scenes from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle, including the whimsical Prehistoric Christmas, enchanting
Winter Wonderland, the classic 12 Days of Christmas, delightful Toyland, playful festive Elves, and the magnificent Reindeer Road. Journey through the awe-inspiring 400foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights alongside additional captivating illuminated tunnels that will transport you into a world of holiday splendor.
The spectacular showcase features show-stopping attractions including the towering 32-foot animated Mattel's Waving Christmas Barbie®, an extraordinary Prehistoric Christmas scene complete with life-sized dinosaurs celebrating the holidays, and the legendary BIGFOOT® Monster Truck display. With more than two million twinkling lights illuminating the night, Magic of Lights delivers a heartwarming and festive experience that creates cherished family memories.
Don't miss the magical Toyota Holiday Village, where families can step out of their vehicles and explore a wonderland of walk-through attractions featuring photos with Santa, holiday treats, merchandise, backdrops to take your magical selfies and an array of delightful holiday activities.
QUICK FACTSMAGIC OF LIGHTS
• 2+ million lights illuminate each Magic of Lights experience
• 12.6 miles of light cord power every Magic of Lights event
• 3,750 dedicated staff hours required to construct each magical display
• Steel frameworks are precision-designed, cut, bent and welded into approximately 800 individual frames, combined in various configurations to create massive holiday scenes. Every frame is engineered using cutting-edge CAD technology and handcrafted in-house following detailed 15-page design specifications.
• Each Magic of Lights installation utilizes roughly 10 miles of steel framework and 10 miles of LED lighting woven throughout the displays, incorporating 10 distinct colors of LED bulbs.
• Magnificent scenes, including the animated Mattel's Waving Christmas Barbie, soar up to 32 feet tall and stretch several hundred feet in length.
Magic of Lights illuminates the night from 5 PM to 10 PM Sun-Thur and 5 PM to 11 PM Fri-Sat running from November 21 date through January 3. Tickets for this extraordinary holiday celebration are available for purchase starting September 25 with convenient pervehicle pricing.
For complete schedules and ticket purchases, visit MagicOfLights.com
A Recipe To Make Sweet Potatoes
Even Sweeter
Sweet potatoes are available at grocery stores yearround, but they tend to garner more attention come Thanksgiving. Indeed, a 2024 Economist/YouGov poll found that 39 percent of Thanksgiving celebrants intended to eat sweet potatoes on Turkey Day. Sweet potatoes pack a powerful and nutritious punch and they’re also able to be prepared in myriad ways. Those who want to make their sweet potatoes a little more sweet this holiday season can try this recipe for “Sweet Potato Marshmallow Gratin” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Gratin
Makes 4 servings
1⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon
1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1⁄2 cup orange juice
5 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1⁄8-inch- thick slices
2 Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1⁄8-inch- thick slices
1 1⁄2 cups mini marshmallows, divided
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Cooking spray
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and orange juice in a small bowl. In a large bowl, combine potatoes. Pour orange juice mixture over the potatoes; toss to coat well.
2. Spritz an 8” x 8” baking dish with cooking spray. Place potatoes, a handful at a time, in the dish and spread them so that the orange and white slices are evenly distributed. Sprinkle 10 to 12 mini-marshmallows on top of this layer. Repeat process, creating five layers, until you almost reach the top of the baking dish.
3. Cover dish with aluminum foil and seal tightly to hold in moisture; bake for 1 hour.
4. Top with remaining marshmallows and brown sugar.
5. Re-cover with foil and bake 30 more minutes. Let stand at least 15 minutes before serving.
Shining A Light On Hanukkah Celebrations
What is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah (also spelled Chanukah) is a Jewish festival that lasts eight days. It starts on the twenty-fifth day of Kislev, which usually falls within the month of December, and commemorates the rededication of the Jewish Temple in 165 BC by the Maccabees. The Temple had been previously desecrated by the Syrians.
Why is Hanukkah eight days?
After the Maccabees fended off the Syrian-Greeks and reclaimed their Temple, they sought to light the Temple's menorah. However, they found only a single cruse of olive oil that had escaped contamination, according to Chabad. org. Miraculously, the one-day supply of oil lasted for eight days, until new oil could be prepared under conditions of ritual purity. Sages subsequently instituted the festival of Hanukkah to commemorate and publicize this miracle.
Menorah lighting
The menorah is the centerpiece of the Hanukkah celebration. It holds nine flames, one of which is called the "shamash" (attendant). That candle is used to kindle the other eight lights. By the eighth night of Hanukkah, eight lights are lit and glowing. The menorah is placed in a doorway or window.
Oily foods
Since the Hanukkah miracle focuses on oil, it is customary to enjoy foods fried in oil. Potato latkes are commonly enjoyed, as are jelly-filled donuts called "sufganiyah."
Giving Hanukkah really isn't about exchanging gifts. The tradition actually is to give out Hanukkah gelt, which is gifts of money to children. Also, individuals reward positive behavior and devotion to Torah study. The cash gifts enable kids to give to charity.
Maximize Cyber Monday
CyberMonday is the final bookend to a series of shoppingcentric days preceding Christmas. Along with Black Friday, Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday presents an additional opportunity to realize great deals on items shoppers may need for gifting or entertaining. Adobe Newsroom reported Cyber Monday hit a record $13.3 billion in online spending in 2024. Consumers also spent heavily on mobile devices, which accounted for 54.8 percent of online sales.
Each Cyber Monday offers a chance to save big and streamline shopping. Utilizing these tips for making the most of the day can enhance success.
• Make a list of intended purchases. Draft a list of items that you need or want and research their typical prices in advance. This enables you to quickly identify if a Cyber Monday discount is a good deal.
• Safely shop online. Scammers are in the business of taking your hard-earned money or personal data. They mimic the look of popular stores and promote deals that often are too good to be true. Before entering payment information, doublecheck the web address, spelling and contact information, warns the Better Business Bureau. Check the website URL
to ensure that the site is secure before purchase.
• Look for coupon codes. Check for promo codes in advance, which can help you get deeper discounts. Utilizing browser extensions that automatically search for and apply coupon codes can streamline this process.
• Be mindful of shipping costs. Shop at online retailers that offer free shipping whenever possible. Double-check the costs of shipping when it isn't free to ensure that the discount is enough to offset shipping costs.
• Ship directly to recipients. In some instances, you can enter a recipient's address at checkout and have the items arrive directly. This can be a great way to avoid costly shipping charges.
• Shop during off-peak times. The convenience of online shopping enables shopping for gifts when it fits into your schedule. Online retailers are open all hours and seven days a week. Save Cyber Monday bulk shopping for the early morning or late evening when you can think through gifts more readily. Although improvements to internet speeds have been made in recent years, online traffic may slow down transactions made during peak hours.
A Brief History Of Christmas Trees
Towering
evergreen trees adorned in lights and other trinkets are a focal point of the holiday season. Christmas trees are placed in prominent locations in homes, typically in front of a large picture window or in the corners of large entryways.
These awe-inspiring trees beckon people to inspect all the ornaments and are often the first things people envision when thinking of holiday decor. The tradition of the Christmas tree is believed to have begun in Germany in the sixteenth century. However, the National Christmas Tree Association says there may be earlier references to Christmas trees in other parts of the world as well.
The first written record of a decorated Christmas tree
comes from Riga, Latvia, in 1510. Men of a local merchant’s guild decorated the tree with roses and then set fire to it. The rose was considered a symbol of the Virgin Mary.
In the sixteenth century in Alsace, France, trees were sold in the marketplace and brought home and set up undecorated. Laws limited the size to “eight shoe lengths,” or slightly more than four feet. Early German Christmas trees were adorned with apples, a holdover from earlier traditions when evergreen boughs hung with apples were used as props in miracle plays. These plays took place in churches on December 24, which was Adam & Eve’s Day in the early Christian calendar. Evergreens have long been symbolic of life during the cold months
of winter, calling to mind the promise of spring to come.
Various cultures, including early Christians, featured trees during winter solstice celebrations.
Some historians believe Martin Luther, a Protestant reformer who might have been inspired by stars in the night, was responsible for adding lighted
candles to the Christmas tree. The Christmas tree was introduced to the United States by German settlers in the 1800s. Soon after those settlers’ arrival, trees began to be sold commercially.
President Franklin Pierce is credited with being the first to have a Christmas tree at the White House.
How To Participate In Giving Tuesday
Theexcitement of the holiday season is palpable. Many people look forward to this time of year so they can deck their homes in lights and find gifts that will delight friends and family.
The spirit of giving that pervades the holiday season extends to Giving Tuesday,
which comes on the heels of the busiest shopping days of the year. According to the Giving Tuesday website, Giving Tuesday is a movement that “reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.” Organizers feel that generosity is the avenue through which humanity can collectively strengthen its social fabric. Those who would like to harness the spirit of charitable giving can explore these ways to give back.
The tenth annual Giving Tuesday is on Tuesday December 2, 2025.
Get involved where it started Giving Tuesday started with a team from the Belfer Center for Innovative & Social Impact in New York City. In November 2012, these individuals implored
nonprofits, influencers, and businesses to inspire others to get involved with acts of giving. The organization has many initiatives that people can support in addition to the original Giving Tuesday. Learn more at www.92ny.org/ belfer-center.
Plant a community garden
Food insecurity is a problem in many neighborhoods across the country. Petition local city councils for a portion of green spaces to devote to a community garden to grow produce for those who may need it. Doing so can foster a sense of camaraderie in communities.
Start a caremongering movement
Caremongering began as a community-led social movement to address health and social needs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Caremongering is designed to help vulnerable people and can include anything from grocery shopping for those with mobility issues to virtually or physically socializing with others to combat social isolation. Those who want to caremonger can do many other things, like run emergency errands or help with childcare.
Donate goods and supplies
Areas of the southern United States experienced extreme devastation with the one-two punch of recent hurricanes. Natural disasters can displace families and push individuals to the brink as supplies become scarce.
& Vegetable
ANTIPASTO (Choose one)
• Traditional Antipasto Platter
• Mozzarella Caprese Platter
FIRST COURSE (Choose one)
• Penne Alla Vodka
• Baked Ziti
• Stuffed Shells
• Cavatelli Calabrese
• Lasagna (Meat or Cheese)
• Manicotti
CORNBREAD STUFFING (Choose one)
• Crisp Apple & Sausage Meat
• Sauteed Spinach, Onions & Pancetta
Ready for pickup Wednesday (Thanksgiving Eve) before 6pm.
(1) PINT OF
HOMEMADE CRANBERRY SAUCE & (1) QUART OF HOMEMADE GRAVY & FRESH BAKED DINNER ROLLS.
MAIN COURSE (Choose one)
• All Natural, FULLY COOKED, Hormone & Antibiotic Free, Whole Young Turkey (Vegetable Diet Fed)
*16lb. average cooked weight
*Carved for additional $15
*Fresh raw turkey available to substitute
VEGETABLE (Choose two)
• String Bean Casserole
• Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Mashed Potatoes
DESSERT (Choose one)
• Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• String Bean Almondine
• Homemade Pumpkin or Apple Pie
• Fresh Cut Fruit Bowl
The Origins Of Christmas Stockings
holiday season is rife with tradition. Some holiday traditions, such as holiday lighting displays, are easy to notice, while others are more subtle and possibly even unknown to many celebrants. One tradition that falls into the latter category involves the placing of oranges into Christmas stockings. The origins of Christmas stockings are rooted in legend and one of the more popular tales involves a widowed father of three beautiful girls. According to Smithsonian.com, this father struggled to make ends meet and was concerned that his financial struggles would affect his daughters' ability to find a spouse. As the legend goes, St. Nicholas was wandering through the man's town and heard of his concerns. Recognizing that the man was unlikely to accept charity, St. Nicholas slid down the chimney of his house and placed three gold balls in the girls' recently laundered stockings, which were hanging by the fire to dry. The value of the gold balls, which were discovered the following morning, was enough to ensure the girls could eventually wed. So what does that have to do with oranges? Those who wanted to replicate the tale could not so easily come upon gold balls to place in stockings, so they chose something similar in appearance: oranges.
New Year’s Eve Celebration Ideas For Families
TheNew Year’s Eve countdown is on, with people eagerly awaiting the opportunity to say goodbye to this year and welcome the possibilities of the year ahead. The month of January’s name was derived from the Roman god Janus, who was the god of beginnings, endings, doorways, and transitions. Symbolized by his two faces looking in opposite directions, Janus presided over many transitions.
Billions enjoy celebrating the arrival of a new year. While New Year’s Eve may be known for its raucous nature, complete with overflowing cocktails and packed dance floors, parents looking to celebrate with their young children have plenty of
Comeoptions to turn NYE into a more family-friendly affair. Explore these ideas for family-friendly NYE fun.
• Noon Year’s Eve: Staying up until midnight might be a stretch for young children, who tend to get wired and cranky the later into the evening they go beyond typical bedtime. Instead of waiting until 12 a.m. for the countdown, move it back (or ahead) 12 hours to 12 noon. Young children won’t mind if it’s the sun out instead of the moon, as long as they get to make noise and throw confetti.
• Homemade noisemakers: Making noise is part of the fun of welcoming the new year. Kids can get in on the act of crafting
Did You Know?
New Year's Eve, it's customary to count down the last 10 seconds until the clock strikes midnight and the new year officially begins. It seems like the 10-second countdown is as old as time itself, but the tradition actually is much more modern. According to Alexis McCrossen, a history professor at Southern Methodist University, prior to the twentieth century, New Year's Day was celebrated rather than New Year's Eve. And even up until the mid-twentieth century, countdowns were not associated with New Year's Eve or even festive occasions. However, the tides turned on countdowns with the Apollo moon launch in 1961. After that, countdowns for radio hits and other fun activities began. Although some TV announcers in the 1960s began counting down to the new year, it wasn't until 1979 that the crowd at Times Square in New York City began joining in. This was despite the first New Year's Eve ball drop being held more than 70 years earlier in 1907. Publisher Adolph Ochs organized the first New Year's Eve party in Times Square in 1904, while the first-ever ball drop took place three years later when the city banned fireworks for the celebration. Yet it was not until the final year of the 1970s for it to be fashionable for a crowd to gather and participate in shouting out the 10-second countdown, a practice that is now tradition.
their own noisemakers from items that already may be around the house. Collect empty toilet paper or paper towel cardboard tubes for this purpose. Cover one end of the tube with masking tape or a round piece of plastic. Fill the tube with beads, small seashells, rice, or dried beans, leaving enough room for the materials to move around inside the tube. Seal the other end and allow the kids to decorate their noisemakers. Then it’s only a matter of shaking them when it’s time to welcome 2026.
• Dress-up photo booth: Many people love to dress up for a special occasion. At a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, set aside a corner of a room with dress up props like funny glasses, feather boas, top hats, and NYEspecific items. Explore digital disposable camera apps like POV, Lense or Pixel Party. Guests simply scan a QR code for the event that the party host has established for a low price, and can snap moments at this “photo booth” that are shared effortlessly to one digital place.
• Kids beverage bar: Ensure that younger guests can be age-appropriate mixologists with sodas, fruit juices, citrus slices, and maraschino cherries. Or set up a hot cocoa bar with miniature marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and peanut butter chips.
• Family-friendly dance club: Put together a playlist of popular songs and choose the “clean” versions so children will not hear questionable lyrics. Clear an area of the party to serve as the dance floor, and utilize strobe lights or a disco ball to enhance the atmosphere.
Families can celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids in entertaining ways that are appropriate for everyone in the home.
