Holiday Seasons 2024 - Edition Three by Long Island Media Group

Charming Colonial set on a serene .45-acre lot. Spacious rst Floor Primary bedroom with an en-suite bath. Formal dining room and den with a wood-burning replace. The eat-in kitchen boasts granite countertops and a functional layout. Central air, central vacuum, a laundry, 2-car attached garage. $879,000 Contact Lynn Witz

Situated at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, this ve-bedroom, four-bathroom colonial home o ers a grand two-story entryway. Spacious, open oor plan. Backyard with a patio and deck overlooking an inviting in-ground pool. $1,350,000 Contact Lynn Witz and Traci Gazzo

Breathtaking 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Colonial masterpiece. Chef’s kitchen, equipped with highend appliances. Den, featuring a gas replace. primary suite o ers a peaceful retreat, complete with two walk-in closets and a spa-inspired ensuite bathroom. $1,250,000 Contact Traci Gazzo & Lynn Witz

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath Splanch style home has undergone a complete transformation, both inside and out, o ering unparalleled luxury and comfort. Plus, the expansive yard provides outdoor enjoyment. $1,295,000 Contact Lynn Witz

Lynn Witz was recognized as the 2023 Top Sales Agent of the Year, for the entire Coach Realtors organization. An honor given to only one of our rm’s 700 sales agents Commack O ce | 212 Commack Road Commack, NY 11725

Ready to be built parcel of land in Fort Salonga w/ sweeping water views of Long Island sound on a private road . This land comes complete with a survey & professional rendering/plan showing the ability to build a 4876 square foot home that the buyer can use if they wish. $1,099,000 Contact Lynn Witz

I do real estate really well and have the numbers to prove it. Let’s Connect

Charming Colonial set on a serene .45-acre lot. Spacious rst Floor Primary bedroom with an en-suite bath. Formal dining room and den with a wood-burning replace. The eatin kitchen boasts granite countertops and a functional layout. Central air, central vacuum, a laundry, 2-car attached garage. $879,000

Contact Lynn Witz

Situated at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, this ve-bedroom, four-bathroom colonial home o ers a grand two-story entryway. Spacious, open oor plan. Backyard with a patio and deck overlooking an inviting inground pool. $1,350,000 Contact Lynn Witz and Traci Gazzo

Breathtaking 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Colonial masterpiece. Chef’s kitchen, equipped with high-end appliances. Den, featuring a gas replace. primary suite o ers a peaceful retreat, complete with two walk-in closets and a spa-inspired ensuite bathroom. $1,250,000

Contact Traci Gazzo & Lynn Witz

Contact Lynn Witz

Lynn Witz

CBR CLHMS, SRES, CHMS Lic. Real Estate Salesperson

Top Sales Agent of the Years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014,2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 & Top Listing Agent 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 631.499.1000 Ext. 1229 Lynnwitz@gmail.com

The Holiday Season is here! Thanksgiving is right around the corner and we are truly thankful for your readership and for our loyal advertisers, we couldn't do what we do without you. Christmas and Hanukkah are also quickly approaching and we hope you're in the holiday spirit! Don't miss our Local Holiday Happenings page, which spotlights a list of upcoming festive events. Plus, enjoy other seasonal pieces throughout, along with local news like always. Looking forward to 2024? Keep an eye out for our New Year's Issue, which will be published next month. Until then, enjoy the wonderful Holiday Season and remember, each day is truly a present.

Local Holiday Happenings!

MAGIC OF LIGHTS

November 22 - January 4

Sunday-Thursday from 5:00

PM- 10:00 PM

Friday & Saturday from 5:00

PM - 11:00 PM

Jones Beach State Park

1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh

Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience, which features holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience this all from the comfort of your own car! One carload, one price.

BRONX ZOO

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

November 22 - January 5

Visit bronxzoo.com for times Bronx Zoo

2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx

The Bronx Zoo, which spans more than 265 acres, will host a family holiday festival that celebrates wildlife with animal lantern trails, holiday decor, animated sculptures, a holiday train and so much more.

FREEZIN' FOR A REASON, 2024 TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN POLAR PLUNGE

November 23

Registration at 9:30 AM

Plunge at 11:30 AM

Cedar Beach

244 Harbor Beach Rd., Mt. Sinai

This fun and unique event provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, schools and businesses to support Special Olympics

New York athletes by jumping into a frigid body of water! If you would like to just watch the event, come cheer on those taking the plunge!

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE ON THE PATCHOGUE RIVER

November 24

Start time: 5:00 PM

Visit patchogueboatparade. org for viewing sites. Watch decorated boats sail the Patchogue River at this fun event! This year's theme is "A ROCKSTAR CHRISTMAS," and there are many viewing spots along the riverfront.

BONAC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

November 29 - December 21 5:30 PM 8:00 PM

East Hampton High School

2 Long Lane, East Hampton

The East End's only holiday light show is back! Come enjoy this family-friendly walkthrough display, featuring over 70 holiday themed light displays.

HUNTINGTON HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

November 30 - January 2

Wall Street, Huntington Visit huntingtonholidayspectacular.com for more information. The Huntington Holiday Spectacular, which captivated the hearts of many when it debuted in 2020, has since grown into a treasured tradition that unites the Huntington community in the spirit of the holiday season. Stroll a charming holiday market, meet Santa and enjoy live music! Visit their website for up to date information.

PORT JEFFERSON

SANTA PARADE & VISIT

December 1

Santa Parade begins at 3:00 PM, visit Santa after the parade Parade runs from the Port Jeff Railroad to Main Street to the Port Jeff Village Center, meet Santa at the Port Jeff Village Center. Mark your calendars, this will be an unforgettable family-friendly event that will get you in the holiday spirit!

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

- CHRISTMAS CUSTOMS AROUND THE WORLD

December 7 & December 8

Tour begins at 10:00 AM, last tour is at 2:30 PM Sagtikos Manor 677 W Montauk Hwy., Bay Shore

Take a guided tour through the Manor all decorated for the holidays! Their docents will tell you about the Christmas

traditions of various countries around the world, including Italy, Scotland, Japan, Finland and more! The gift shop will be open during tour hours.

HISTORIC HOLIDAYS AT HALLOCKVILLE

December 8

12:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Hallockville Museum Farm 6038 Sound Avenue, Riverhead

Experience old-fashioned North Fork holiday traditions! There will be holiday displays in three historic residences on this 28-acre preserved farm, that will be staffed by costumed docents welcoming guests and sharing stories of past holiday celebrations.

SANTA & FRIENDS BREAKFAST

December 14

9:30 AM 11:00 AM

United Skates of America 1276 Hicksville Rd., Seaford This is a non-skating event that includes a breakfast buffet and a special meeting with Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, Frosty and a Gingerbread Man! Wear your cutest holiday pajamas and have some good old fashioned fun!

BABYLON

CHRISTMAS MARKET

December 14

10:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Village Gazebo & Bayman Park

The Babylon Beautification Society is pleased to host this outdoor Christmas Market, featuring over 90 vendors selling fine and unique gifts. Plus, enjoy food and beverages for sale in the Gazebo area. The rain date for the event is December 15. Visit babylonbeautification.org for more information.

Reconditioned & Rentals

NorthportEast Northport Public Library Upcoming Events

During the month of November, Northport-East Northport Public Library will be hosting a Collection for Veterans in cooperation with General Needs LTD.

Stop in to either library building to donate NEW personal items to be distributed to the men & women at Northport VAMC and Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook. Look for the General Needs boxes in the library lobbies. Specific needs include: Shampoo, Conditioner, Deodorant, Liquid Hand Soap, Body Wash (Old Spice is a special request), Tampons, Pads, Panty Liners, Tissues and Hand Sanitizer.

Online Author Talks - “Live” and On Demand

Each month the library’s Online Author Talks feature three to five new programs. The live talks are then available in the online archive. Search for upcoming talks by your favorite author, listen to talks about topics of interest, find interesting titles for your book discussions, or stream the author’s talk with your book group. Register for a live talk or view an archived event at https://libraryc.org/nenpl

BOOK GROUPS AT THE LIBRARY

All Booked Up - Northport Public Library

Thursday, November 14, 2:00 p.m.

Join Librarian Deborah Formosa to discuss Piglet by Lottie Hazell. Registration is underway. NENR584

Novel Ideas

Northport Public Library

Monday, November 25, 7:00 p.m.

Join Librarian Candace Reeder to discuss The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak. Registration is underway. NENA012

FRIDAY FILMS AT THE LIBRARY It Ends With Us

Northport Public Library -- Friday, Nov. 15, 2:00 p.m.

East Northport Public Library -- Friday, Nov. 22, 2:00 p.m.

When a woman’s first love suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with a charming but abusive neurosurgeon is upended. She must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future. Based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover. Rated PG-13. 130 min.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring: It Is Important to Know Your Numbers

East Northport Public Library

Monday, November 18, 1:00 p.m.

A representative from Stony Brook Medicine Healthy Libraries Program (HeLP) will be on hand to discuss and demonstrate self-measured blood pressure monitoring. Patrons may borrow a free Blood Pressure Loaner Kit from the Library (NENPL cardholders, only) to use at home. Registration is underway. NENA995

Friends of America’s VetDogs

(N) Monday, November 18, 2:00 p.m.

Learn about the 40 service dogs that Friends of America’s VetDogs have sponsored for veterans in need. See what these incredible, highly trained canines can do, how many lives they have saved, and how each dog has been named to honor one of our military heroes. Find out how all of this is done at no cost to the veterans. Registration is underway. NENA996

Veterans Resource Fair

(N) Wednesday, November 20, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Come to the Veterans Resource Fair to meet representatives from organizations that provide services specific to United States Veterans. No registration required. Visit www.nenpl.org for a list of participating organizations.

Behind the Holiday Hits

Northport Public Library

Wednesday, November 20, 7:00 p.m.

Join Clive Young for a fun, multi- media presentation exploring the origins of favorite seasonal hits. Registration is underway. NENA997

Friday Night Board Game Meet-Up

Northport Public Library

Friday, November 22, 6:00 p.m.

Bring your own games and join friends new and old for the launch of our new monthly meet-up program for game enthusiasts. Registration is underway. NENR585

151 Laurel Avenue • Northport, NY 11768 631-261-6930

185 Larkfield Road • East Northport, NY 11731 631-261-2313 • www.nenpl.org

Tips To Simplify Your Thanksgiving Dinner Menu

Thanksgiving is a much anticipated and beloved holiday. Celebrated on the second Monday in October in Canada and the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, Thanksgiving in each country offers families and friends an opportunity to gather and break bread together. Food is indeed a focus of Thanksgiving in both Canada and the United States, and that can be a little overwhelming if not intimidating for those tasked with hosting the celebration. Guests might come to expect certain Thanksgiving staples, including turkey and mashed potatoes. Such expectations can make it easier to plan a Thanksgiving menu, and sticking to Turkey Day

standard bearers is not the only way to simplify meal planning on this beloved holiday.

• Accept help, but keep it limited. It’s customary for loved ones invited to Thanksgiving celebrations to offer to bring a dish to dinner, and that can alleviate some of the work hosts are tasked with managing. However, hosts can keep things simple by asking only a small handful of guests to prepare a side dish. Once the quota is filled, politely decline any additional offers to bring food. It can be hard to find space on the table if too many guests bring dishes from home, and that can lead

estimated that Americans would waste 312 million pounds of food on Thanksgiving 2023. Hosts who want to avoid cooking excessive amounts of food, much of which may eventually end up in the trash can, can simplify meal prep by cooking less and explaining to guests that they aspire to reduce food waste this Thanksgiving.

to hurt feelings if certain sides are ignored or left on the kitchen counter due to a lack of real estate

• Explain your desire to reduce food waste. Another way to simplify the meal is to avoid succumbing to the temptation to cook too much food. Guests may expect to go home with full bellies. Indeed, the Calorie Control Council notes that Americans consume between 3,000 and 4,500 calories during Thanksgiving celebrations. Such consumption is not only unhealthy for humans, but the planet as well.

The U.S.-based nonprofit ReFED, which is devoted to stopping food waste,

• Keep table settings simple. Unless you’re planning to post photos of the family meal on Instagram this Thanksgiving, you can skip the more elaborate formal table settings in favor of a simple setup you might use on most nights when dining at home. Polishing the fancy silver and folding cloth napkins in a way that would impress a seasoned maître d’ is a time-consuming task that can complicate meal preparation. Keep it simple with less formal settings, which will allow guests to direct their focus to the task at hand: eating a delicious, homecooked holiday meal.

• Purchase a premade dessert. It might be tempting to try your hand at a homemade dessert, but it’s far easier to purchase pies and ice cream from a local farmer’s market in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. This approach ensures hosts have it a little easier once the main course has been served and consumed.

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is no small task. However, hosts can take various steps to simplify Thanksgiving meal planning this year.

Healthy Holiday Recipe Swaps

Althoughpresents garner most of the fanfare during the holiday season, there is no denying that food and entertaining also figure prominently 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

Many also are 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.

of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well.

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 also can 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.

• 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 healthconscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use fresh herbs and seasonings instead

• 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 150to 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.

Celebrants can make some smart choices in the foods and beverages they eat to enjoy a healthier holiday season this December.

Small businesses are the backbone those establishments across economic development programs. community. It’s how we keep Learn

’Tis the season to support.

backbone of our communities. That’s why we’re proud to give back to across Long Island and in The Rockaways through our energy efficiency and programs. You too can help support them by shopping for gifts in your keep our local economy strong and how we stick together on our island. we’re supporting local businesses at psegliny.com/businessfirst.

Get Creative With Holiday Decor

Theend of the year is upon us and that often involves decorating a home in its holiday finest. According to Today’s Homeowner, nearly 70 percent of Americans plan to display outdoor holiday decorations. Among those choosing to decorate, 34 percent will do so before Thanksgiving. Everyone has a different vision of a wellappointed holiday home, but there’s always room to make things more unique and creative. These ideas can add a little extra to holiday displays.

Decorate other rooms

Who says holiday decorating is exclusive to living and dining areas? Think about decorating unexpected places, like swapping out everyday towels and shower curtains with something festive. Swags of greenery wrapped in lights can be added to bed frames.

Coordinate the ornaments

Identify a color theme and then showcase it with ornaments. Think about matching the ornaments to the presents wrapped under the tree as well. Purchase white package paper and color or paint the paper to be the same hues as the ornaments on the tree boughs.

It’s hip to be square

While round wreaths are traditional, make your own wreaths in a different geometric shape by using wire or another material as the frame. Square wreaths may be unexpected, and you also can turn the square on its side for a diamond shape.

Add a spot of color

Certain holidays are known for their particular color palettes, such as red and green for Christmas. But you also can do something

unique vessels. For example, arrange your centerpiece in a tall fountain glass or even a cocktail shaker.

Try a different accent tree

Use a styrofoam cone as the base of a tree for a centerpiece or sideboard. Attach poinsettia branches for a vibrant red tree, or stacked lemons or oranges filled with greenery for a fresh-smelling citrus creation.

Suspend belief

Instead of attaching a tree topper to the tallest bough, hang one from the ceiling just above the tree to add even more whimsy.

Mix and match

When it comes to a holiday table, mix and match table settings for an eclectic tableau.

Shift into neutral

unexpected. Whether using a lighter shade of the same color family or adding an accent color like purple or blue, you can change things up in a creative way.

Make an unexpected bouquet

Swap flowers for pine cones, berries and greenery in

Instead of a large holiday display in familiar colors, rely on neutral, wintry tones that will blend in with the home but add a festive touch. Natural wood, whites and creams, and muted greens can fill spaces.

Unique holiday decorations and schemes can be a great way to add new life to a home this December.

Artificial Or Real Christmas Tree? Even though the debate continues regarding the merits of artificial and real Christmas trees, it seems there is a winner, at least within the United States. According to Statista, 47 percent of American households own an artificial Christmas tree, while 24 percent purchase real trees. Though real trees might not be as popular as their artificial alternatives, the number of real trees that are purchased each year remains significant. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, roughly 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the United States.

Supporting Long Island Oyster Reef Restoration

Reworld™,

a leader in sustainable waste solutions, recently sponsored the Huntington-Northport Oyster Reef Project, a collaborative initiative aimed at creating, restoring and revitalizing Long Island’s oyster reefs. As a committed partner in this environmental effort, Reworld™ is working alongside the Rotary Environmental Action Coalition of Huntington (REACH) to improve water quality and strengthen marine ecosystems in the local embayment.

“At Reworld™, we understand the critical role that sustainable waste solutions play in protecting and restoring our natural environments,” said Maureen Early, Lead Community Relations Specialist at Reworld™. “Our staff is honored to be part of a project that not only benefits our local marine life but also engages the community in meaningful environmental stewardship.”

Launched in 2022 with support from various local partners, including National Grid Ventures (NGV), Rotary International, and REACH Rotary Club, the HuntingtonNorthport Oyster Reef Project has made significant strides in its first three years. From modest beginnings, the project has more than doubled its oyster production and tripled volunteer participation, with plans to further expand the number of oyster reefs into a network of spawner sanctuaries. The group has just deployed its oysters into two new reefs in Huntington Harbor, further stressing their expanding efforts.

Long Island has a rich history as an oyster hub, but years of overharvesting

and pollution have severely impacted the local reefs. The Huntington-Northport Oyster Reef Project seeks to reverse this decline and revive a keystone maritime legacy that once thrived in the region. Reworld™ is committed to environmental sustainability and community engagement, and by supporting initiatives like this, they contribute to the revitalization of Long Island’s waterways and foster a healthier ecosystem for future generations.

“The support from Reworld™ has been instrumental in helping REACH grow its impact. Since the start, we’ve expanded our [footprint] in the Huntington community and increased our capacity,” said James Wylie, Project Coordinator, and President of REACH Rotary Club. “The nursery docks provide a foundation for the essential volunteer efforts needed for the success of our long-term reef restoration program. The environmental focus has resonated so well with the community that a new Rotary club was created to engage people of all ages in this important work. We’ve also branched out into other water-related projects like half-shell recycling, sugar kelp cultivation, and native plant restoration to help strengthen our fragile ecosystems. For us, it all begins with oysters, and we’re seeing very encouraging results. With consistent monitoring and analysis, we hope to quantify our success year over year. This progress is directly connected to continued contributions and support from Reworld™.”

The impact of this project extends beyond just the oysters. Oyster reefs create vital habitats for a multitude of marine species, and one oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day, significantly improving water quality. The HuntingtonNorthport Oyster Reef Project continues to grow, thanks to the dedication of hundreds of volunteers and the support of organizations like Reworld™ and NGV.

For more information about Reworld™ and its initiatives that support various community empowerment and environmental programs fostering positive change locally and globally, please visit www.reworldwaste.com.

Photos credit to Glenn Gordon

Why Supporting Local Small Businesses Matters

Theholiday season is a time of year when shopping takes center stage. While online giants and big box retailers seem to be everywhere, offering an endless array of products with the convenience of low prices, small businesses provide a range of benefits that go far beyond the ease of a mouse click or mountains of merchandise. Shopping local retailers is more than just a transaction — it is crucial for maintaining the economic foundation of local communities. Let’s take a look at the many ways it pays to shop small businesses during the holidays and all year long.

• Strengthen the local economy: A large percentage of the money

more friendly and connected with regular customers sets many small businesses apart.

• Support the community: Small businesses serve the community through the products and services they offer, and many give back in other ways as well. Small, locally owned businesses often sponsor schools, sports teams and charities. This helps foster a sense of belonging in the community.

• Innovative offerings: Small businesses are not beholden to corporate policies or franchise restrictions, so they can more readily bring new life to existing ideas and trends. Small businesses can offer customers different options that larger retailers cannot match.

• Job creation: Small businesses employ a significant percentage of the workforce and frequently provide jobs that might not be available in larger corporate settings. The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy says small businesses have generated 12.9 million net new jobs over the past 25 years, accounting for two out of every three jobs added to the U.S. economy. Keeping residents working helps strengthen local communities.

There are numerous benefits to shopping at small businesses this Small Business Saturday and throughout the year. Such firms help to establish a more resilient, diverse and bustling local community.

spent at small businesses stays in the community. That’s because these businesses often are owned and operated by local residents who are invested in the community themselves. Various studies indicate that for every $100 spent at a small business, roughly $70 stays in the community.

• Enhanced customer service: Owners and employees of small businesses have a keen interest in keeping customers happy. They often do so by providing superior customer service. Tailoring recommendations, exhibiting a willingness to accommodate special requests, offering a more engaging shopping experience, and being

SupportingShop Local

small businesses ensures more money stays in the communities those businesses serve. The U.S. Small Business Administration says $48 out of every $100 spent at a small business stays in the community. On the flip side, when a person spends $100 at a bigbox store or a national chain, only $14 remains in the community. Local businesses are more likely to utilize other local businesses, such as banks, service providers and even farms. Small businesses also pay employees, many of whom are local and shop local, thereby keeping even more dollars in their communities.

CFestively Chase Away Chills

Seasonal Sips

ooler temperatures have arrived to coincide with what many characterize as the most festive time of year. The period from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day is filled with major holidays and many opportunities for friends and family to gather together in good cheer. Naturally, spending time indoors in close company with others increases the likelihood that people will encounter the sniffles and sneezes that are symptomatic of viral illnesses. Many people insist a hot toddy can help soothe the throat, open the nose and help a person get rest. There are various iterations of a hot toddy, but author Gustave Flaubert’s “French Hot Toddy” delivers flavors that pair nicely with November and December events. It’s so delicious that it can be served at any holiday gathering, or just to feel better if the common cold is an unwanted visitor. Enjoy Flaubert’s take, courtesy of “How to Drink Like a Writer” (Apollo Publishers) by Margaret Kaplan.

Gustave Flaubert’s French Hot Toddy Serves 1 4 ounces apple cider 2 ounces calvados

ounces apricot brandy 2 ounces heavy cream

Ground cinnamon for garnishing

Directions:

In a small saucepan, heat apple cider until warm. Remove from heat. Add calvados and apricot brandy, stirring to combine. Pour into a heatproof glass. Pouring in a circular motion, slowly add cream, allowing it to settle on top. Garnish with the cinnamon.

Notable Chanukah Traditions

Eachyear on the twentyfifth day of Kislev, which typically falls during the month of December, adherents of the Jewish faith celebrate the festival of Chanukah. Although Chanukah may not bear the same religious significance as other Jewish holidays, it is a well-known celebration.

Chanukah commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees in 165 BC after its desecration by the Syrians. Although there was not enough oil left to light the Temple for even one night, lamps remained illuminated for eight straight days and nights. Thus Chanukah is known as the Festival of Lights, which incorporates many unique traditions.

Lighting the menorah

Perhaps the most visible and important Chanukah tradition

involves the menorah. While traditional Jewish menorahs have seven branches, the Chanukah menorah, known as the hanukkiah, actually has nine branches. There are eight candles and a ninth, which is called the shamash, is used to light the other eight. The menorah is lit each night after sundown.

Giving of gelt

Chanukah gelt is money given as presents during the festival. It is typically offered to children and sometimes to teachers. Other gifts have now largely replaced the coins once offered, and gelt is sometimes chocolate.

Playing dreidel

Greek-Syrians outlawed Jewish studies at one point, so the Jews spun dreidels to pretend they were only playing games. Really they

According to Town & Country magazine, millions of jelly doughnuts are consumed in Israel throughout Chanukah. Serving brisket

An authentic Chanukah celebration often includes traditional dishes served in the spirit of celebration and gratitude. Brisket is frequently prepared for Chanukah dinners. Brisket was adopted because it was affordable and delicious. Jewish brisket is braised, and served with carrots, potatoes and other vegetables. Brisket may be served alongside another Chanukah dish, kugel, which is a casserole made from eggs and noodles

Making cookies

were engaged with their scripture. The tradition of spinning the dreidel endures as a Chanukah tradition.

Foods fried in oil

The miracle of the burning oil extends to the foods enjoyed during Chanukah. Many of the holiday foods are prepared in oil, including latkes (fried potatoes) and sufganiyot, which are fried, jelly-filled doughnuts.

Although Christmas cookies may be ubiquitous this time of year, cookies often are part of Chanukah traditions as well. Some cookies are cut to look like dreidels or stars. Those who want to incorporate the miracle of oil into their baking can seek recipes that use oil in place of butter in the cookie batters, something that can make them dairy-free and also vegan.

Chanukah begins on December 25, 2024, and will last through January 2, 2025. It’s a festive time to embrace many time-honored traditions.

HSS Named Official Hospital And Partner

Of St. John’s University Athletics

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the world's leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health, and St. John’s University, announced a multi-year partnership designating HSS as the official hospital of St. John’s Athletics.

HSS will provide worldclass medical services to St. John’s University athletes, including onsite medical coverage for the men’s and women’s basketball and soccer programs, as well as men’s lacrosse. HSS sports medicine physiatrist, James F. Wyss, MD, PT, and primary sports medicine physician, Osric S. King, MD, will serve as co-head team physicians. Dr. Wyss previously served as the

partnership with Hospital for Special Surgery and the exceptional care and expertise that they will bring to the university in managing the orthopedic injuries for our student-athletes,” said Jill Christensen, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Sports Wellness at St. John’s University.

As part of this partnership agreement, HSS will sponsor a St. John’s Athletics community event, highlighting the mutual commitment of both parties to enhance community wellbeing and advance athlete fitness and performance.

"St. John’s is well-known for its athletic programs, and we are proud to offer their student-athletes access to the highest quality of sports medicine resources to enhance performance,

ensure proper recovery, and support the balance of their academic and athletic commitments,” said Dr. King. “HSS is dedicated to delivering exceptional care across the tri-state area and supporting athletes at every level. We are eager to strengthen our partnership with the St. John’s community in Queens.”

“We are excited to partner with Hospital for Special Surgery, one of the world's preeminent medical institutions in the world, and the number one orthopedic hospital in the United States,” said John Diffley, Deputy Athletics Director/ COO at St. John’s University.

team physician from 2010 to 2016, while Dr. King held the role from 2005 to 2016.

“HSS is committed to delivering unrivaled care to athletes at all levels. We are thrilled to extend our clinical expertise to St. John’s University through a partnership that emphasizes a shared dedication to excellence in sports medicine and athlete health,” said Dr. Wyss. “We look forward to engaging with the campus community and providing comprehensive support to these talented student-athletes as they pursue their academic and athletic goals.”

“The St. John’s Sports Medicine department is thrilled with our