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.
Immaculate & spacious 11 room, 6 bed, 2.5 bath 3,117 SqFt bright and modern colonial featuring generous room sizes, loads of living space and lots of natural light, entry foyer, new kitchen (2 yrs) w/white quartz waterfall countertop, stainless steel appliances, wine refrigerator & pantry, living room, formal dining room, cozy fireplace room, large family room, mudd room, 2 zone CAC, hi hats, master suite w/2 closets, ensuite bath and water views, 1 bedroom on the first floor & 5 bedrooms upstairs, 2.5 car detached garage, new timbertech deck (2 yrs) and a private fenced yard professionally landscaped by a landscape architect all on a beautiful shy half-acre property just a few doors down from the bay…come see for yourself.
RESTAURANT & CATERING HALL
SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET
Mimosa Special
10:00am to 2:00pm $25.99
Eggs Benedict Station Made Fresh To Order
Pouched Eggs, Canadian Bacon, English Muf n, Topped with Hollandaise Sauce
Carving Station
Omelet and Scrambled Station
Made Fresh To Order
A Fine Selection Of Ingredients for Your Egg Creations
Cold Station
Jumbo Peel n Eat Shrimp and Variety of Assorted Cold Salads
In Hot Chaf ng Dishes
Cherry Cheese Blintz, German Pancakes Crepes with Diced Apples, Raisins, and Maple Syrup, Corned Beef Hash, Home Fries, Crispy Bacon, Sizzling Sausage, Kielbasa & Kraut. Penne ala Vodka, Pierogies with Onions, Stuffed Cabbage Potato Pancakes, Chicken Francaise, Fresh Fish of the Day
Eggs Benedict Station Made Fresh To Order Pouched Eggs, Canadian Bacon, English Muf n, Topped with Hollandaise Sauce
Silver Dollar Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast & Belgium Waf es
Topped with Your Choice of Fresh Whipped Cream, Warm Fruit, or Maple Syrup
Chocolate Fountain and Specialty Cakes
Cheesecake and Assorted Cakes, Fresh Fruit
Strawberries, Pineapple, Honeydew, Cantaloupe, Pretzels, Rice Crispy Treats for Dipping Beverages Included Freshly Brewed Coffee of Tea
Adults $25.99 | Children $14.99 | Ages 3-10
+Tax +Tip (Kids 2 and under are free)
Each Seating is Hour and a Half Sunday Brunch Drinks Specials
$5.95 Mimosa, $6.95 Bloody Mary or Red Sangria
$5.00 Cabernet, Merlot or Chardonnay
This Menu & Price Are Not Available On Holidays Or The Month Of December. Listed Is The Cash Price, Credit Card Is Additional Fee. All Pricing Is + Tax + Tip.
IPA, Yuengling or Pabst Blue Ribbon
Choice of a Starter:
Soup of the Day or House Salad.(Upgrade to our Famous Lobster Bisque or French Onion Soup for add’l $3.95)
Choice of a Entree:
Marinated Pork Chop with Gorgonzola Cheese • Stuffed Cajun Flounder • Chicken Pot Pie • Kielbasa • Pierogies • Chopped Steak with Mushrooms and Gravy • Crab Cakes • Chicken Caesar Wrap • Shrimp Wrap • Birchwood Cobb Salad ~ Choice of dressing • Chicken and Shrimp Francaise • Fried Flounder Platter
• Chicken Schnitzel • Meatloaf wrapped with Bacon
• Creamy Penna Ala Vodka with Your Choice of Sausage or Shrimp
This Menu Is “Subject To Change” Price, Time, And Availability Of Items.
3 COURSE SPECIAL $39.95
Choice of beer or wine • Appetizer and entree
Glass of: Fresh Red Sangria, Cabernet or Chardonnay, or Draft Beer: Dogfish 60 Min IPA, Watermelon or PBR.
Choice of an Appetizer (1):
Caesar, Garden Salad/choice of dressing, Soup of the Day, Mozzarella Sticks, Pierogies w/Onions, Potato Pancakes or Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Seafood Stuffing Topped with Lobster Cream Sauce
Choice of an Entree (1):
8 Oz. Filet Mignon Marinated With Crispy Fried Onions, Spinach & Mashed Potatoes • Sauerbraten • Tender Yankee Pot Roast Creamy
Penne Ala Vodka • German Combo• Beef Rouladen
• Marinated Pork Chops • Boneless Tender BBQ Short Ribs and Shrimp Kielbasa w/Kraut and Pierogies w/Sautéed Onions
Chicken and Shrimp Francese • Maine Lobster Ravioli
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.
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
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
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.
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
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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
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.
Winter Wonderland
November 30, December 7, December 14, December 21 • 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
$20/person (under 2 years old free) • Discount for military
Enjoy a walk-through experience across
& activities:
Winter Themed Games
Storybook Readings
Hot Chocolate & Treats
Outdoor Holiday Movies
Enchanted Garden
Equine Themed Winter Village
Festival of Trees & Lights
Holiday Music & Caroling
Family Photo Opportunities
Live Nativity Scene
Holiday Gift Shop
Visits from Special Guests....
PLEASE NOTE, THERE IS LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING. Pal-O-Mine
South Ocean Middle School Celebrates 100th Anniversary
South Ocean Middle School recently marked its 100th anniversary with a school-wide celebration and a beautiful mural honoring the school’s rich and storied history. Unity and community pride were front and center as South Ocean students, administrators,
faculty, and staff came together for an enjoyable evening of music, food, and games sponsored by the PTA.
“It is an honor to celebrate a century of achievement and excellence at South Ocean Middle School,” said Patchogue-Medford School District Superintendent Dr.
Donna Jones. “Principal Dr. Timothy Piciullo and all of our educators at South Ocean have done a wonderful job continuing to cultivate remarkable learning environments and supporting our students in their growth and success.”
Founded in 1924, South
Ocean Middle School has enhanced the education of thousands of PatchogueMedford School District students throughout its 100 years of existence. The mural commissioned to commemorate this monumental anniversary encapsulates this academic mission and highlights the school’s focus on shaping well-rounded scholars.
Academic pursuits and success, the arts, athletics, and extracurriculars are all spotlighted in the mural as key components of South Ocean Middle School’s learning environment and its motto, “Where Education Is Met With Excellence.”
The free anniversary festivities took place on the school’s rear field across from the mural. Students enjoyed music from a DJ— participating in their favorite line dances together— and engaged in soccer, basketball, and playground games with one another.
Small businesses are the backbone those establishments across economic development programs. community. It’s how we keep
Learn
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.
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.
Artificial Or Real Christmas Tree?
Eventhough 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.
Bayport-Blue Point Public Library: A Season Of Learning, Fun, And Festivities
As we enter the holiday season, the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library is buzzing with activities and programs for all ages. This is just a sampling of what the library offers, from live music performances and movie screenings to community projects and homework help. There’s something for everyone this holiday season at the library, and your'e invited to join the festivities! Visit www. bayportbluepointlibrary.org for details on these events and more, call 631-363-6133, or email ContactUs@bbplibrary. org.
Holiday Giving with the Mitten Tree
Starting November 29, the Mitten Tree invites community members to donate new or handmade mittens, gloves, hats, or scarves, which will go to local children in need. Join us at the Mitten Tree Ceremony on Monday, December 2, at 6:30 PM to celebrate the season of giving. This project is proudly co-sponsored by the Johnny Mac Foundation.
A Season of Music and Cheer
Enjoy a series of musical performances to brighten your holiday spirit. On Sunday, November 17, the Sad Toy Cats, a Bayport-born acoustic band, will perform live, blending acoustic rock with orchestral touches. Later, on Sunday, December 15, enjoy a delightful holiday concert by the Paul Joseph Trio, featuring jazz renditions of seasonal classics from multiple traditions, including "Let It Snow" and "O Holy Night." For a lively finale, join others on December 22 for the Winter Carnival with pianist J.K. Hodge and guest musicians, bringing holiday joy through classic favorites. Registration is required for these events.
Passport Services
Planning to travel? The library offers U.S. passport services by appointment, providing assistance with applications and renewals. Make an appointment by calling the Adult Reference Desk at 631-363-6133 ext. 4. For more information, visit www.bayportbluepointlibrary.org/ passport-service/.
Explore Local Museums with Library Passes
The library’s museum pass program provides free admission to many popular Long Island and New York City museums and venues. Explore the Children’s Museum of the East End, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Harbes Family Farm, the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, and more. Patrons can reserve passes online, by phone, or in person to enjoy a day of discovery and learning.
Homework Help Anytime, Anywhere
Students, if homework has you stressed, we’re here to help! With your library card, you can connect to free online tutors from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Our Homework
Help program provides access to skilled tutors, writing assistance, flashcards, test prep, and more. Simply visit their website and look under “Research and Learning Tools for Children.”
Warm Up at the Island Dreams Café
This holiday season, cozy up with a delicious cup of coffee or a freshly baked treat at the Island Dreams Café, open daily in the library. This family-owned business serves premium coffee with a passion for quality and community. Whether it’s a morning boost or a coffee date with friends, Island Dreams adds a warm touch to your library visit.
Weekly Fun: Open Chess and Movie Mondays
Every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM, chess enthusiasts can drop by for Open Chess — no registration required, just bring your game skills! And for film lovers, our Movie Mondays offer a lineup of favorite films, with screenings each Monday at 1:00 PM. This season’s showings include Ezra on November 18, The Fall Guy on November 25, Thelma on December 2, Horizon: An American Saga on December 9, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire on December 16, Last Christmas on December 23, and If on December 30. Whether you’re in the mood for a holiday comedy or an epic adventure, there’s a movie for everyone to enjoy.
Celebrate the season with the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library! With their wide range of programs, there’s always something exciting happening. For more information, call them, visit www.bayportbluepointlibrary.org, or check their latest newsletter.
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.
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.
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
2 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.
