Tips For First-Time Holiday Hosts
Theholiday season is a busy time of year. From holiday shopping to readying the home for guests, there’s no shortage of things to accomplish in a relatively brief amount of time. Seasoned holiday enthusiasts may be ready to put their game faces on and tackle tasks with ease. But for first-time holiday hosts, the prospect of crossing items off to-do lists may require a little extra assistance.
According to Dr. Vanessa Kennedy, a clinical psychologist at Driftwood Recovery, holiday hosting can “lead to the pressure to curate picture-perfect moments, creating stress and anxiety.” The following are pointers those new to holiday hosting can employ to simplify the process and enjoy the holidays a little more.
• Do as much prep work in advance as possible. Giving yourself extra time to get things done can help immensely. Grocery shop one day, prepare food the next, clean the house one day, and set the table or arrange decor on another. Minor task can be left for the morning of the day guests arrive.
• Cook and freeze items. Utilize recipes that enable you to cook in bulk and then store foods until you need them. Casseroles, baked pasta dishes, freezable soups, and readyto-bake cookie doughs made in advance will save a lot of time closer to the holidays.
• Stock the pantry. If holiday hosting involves overnight guests, be sure
The Messiah Feeds The Hungry!
Through the generosity of the Church of St. Joseph, on Sunday, December 14th at 7:00 PM the renowned St. Joseph’s Choir and friends will once again present the traditional FREE concert at St. Joseph’s Church in Babylon Village. The renowned St. Joseph Choir has presented a yearly December concert for over 25 years raising more than $100.000 for the benefit of the Mercy INN Soup Kitchen in Wyandanch. They will perform Handel’s MESSIAH and Bach’s Magnificat and more preceded by a moving candlelight procession. They are directed by Dr. Marie Drohan and
Tell Us About It!
to keep easy items on hand so guests can help themselves. Dry goods or pre-packaged muffins for breakfast, chips or pretzels for late-night snacks, granola bars, or store made croissants can fit the bill. Put everything in a dedicated basket so guests can grab items as needed. Stock the refrigerator with water, seltzer, iced teas, and sodas, and make a full pot of coffee in the morning so guests can pour their own.
• Avoid complicated cocktails. You don’t want to be stuck mixing drinks all evening. Instead, make it simple for guests to help themselves. Wine, beer, premade punches, or even one specialty drink are ideal.
• Consider hiring a caterer. If the idea of a homecooked meal feels like climbing Mount Everest, swap out some items for store-bought alternatives, or work with a favorite restaurant or caterer to secure foods that only need to be reheated and served.
• Free up closet and room space. Guests will be coming with a lot of stuff, particularly if you live in a cold climate. Make room in the entry closet for guests’ coats and boots. Be sure you can accommodate suitcases or overnight bags. Set aside an area where guests can deposit their wrapped gifts.
Holiday hosting can be a whirlwind of activity, but novice hosts can quickly get into the swing of things.
accompanied by soloists, the Sophisticated Strings, trumpets, flute and harpsichord. The church will be in darkness at 7:00 so early arrival is recommended. Donations are encouraged to benefit the soup kitchen-cash
or check payable to The Mercy INN and may also be dropped off at the Parish Center-39 N. Carll Ave. Babylon Village NY time before or after the concert. the church office at 631-669-0068 for more information.
Let us know about your honors, awards, promotions and other announcements. They are always welcome. Photos can be emailed as well. Send them to editorial@ longislandmediagroup.com.
These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on
Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.
Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
Christmas Cupcakes Make A Perfect Holiday Treat
Alittle indulgence is par for the course come the holiday season. That’s especially true in relation to baked goods, which find their way into entertaining areas at office parties, family gatherings and school functions. Treats are indeed part of what makes the holiday season a special time of year. This year, families can whip up this Lines+Angles recipe for “Chocolate Christmas Cupcakes” to make the holiday season a little more flavorful.
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Position oven 1. For the cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Place 12 cupcake liners in a muffin tin.
2. Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until soft and light. Beat in both sugars and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time until well blended. Sift in the flour, baking powder and cocoa and fold in gently until incorporated. Stir in the milk and chocolate chips.
4. Spoon into the paper cases and bake for 25 minutes until firm to the touch. Leave in the tins for 5 minutes, then place on a wire rack to cool completely.
5. For the chocolate topping: Put the cream and chocolate in a pan over a low heat until melted. Remove from the heat and allow to cool and thicken slightly.
6. Spoon onto the cupcakes and leave until almost set.
7. Roll out the white sugarpaste on a surface dusted with icing sugar. Cut out shapes to resemble snow and place on the cakes.
8. Roll out the green sugarpaste on a surface lightly dusted with icing sugar. Cut out 2 holly leaves for each cake with a holly shaped cutter or card template. Brush lightly with water and attach to the white sugarpaste.
9. Roll pieces of red sugarpaste into small balls for the “berries” and place on the cakes, as in the photo, attaching with a little water.
The Deer Park School District honored the exceptional commitment of its board of education for School Board Recognition Week at the Oct. 28 board meeting. In a heartwarming special tribute led by teachers Diana Saparito and Ashley Woolsey, John Quincy Adams Primary School
students sang “A Million Dreams” to thank the board for helping them reach their goals and dreams.
“In Deer Park, we are extremely fortunate to have the seven people that we have on the board,” Superintendent James Cummings said, lauding their dedication to the
district’s students. “The only thing they care about is what’s best for our kids, and that comes out in
Chocolate Christmas Cupcakes
Makes 12 cupcakes
1 loaf crusty white or wheat bread, For the cakes:
8 tablespoons butter
1⁄3 cup caster sugar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄3 cup cocoa powder
1⁄2 cup milk
1 cup chocolate chips
For the chocolate topping:
2⁄3 cup heavy cream
1 cup chopped plain dark chocolate, 70 percent
To decorate: Icing sugar
8 ounces white sugarpaste
8 ounces green sugarpaste
4 ounces red sugarpaste
every decision that they make.”
Additionally, Deer Park High School seniors
Lauren Marable, Onwuka Offiah and Jaidyn Schabe were recognized for recently being named
Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Arthritis Foundation To Host Jingle Bell Run
The Arthritis Foundation invites Long Islanders to lace up their sneakers, don their festive holiday gear and join the movement to conquer arthritis at the annual Jingle Bell Run, happening Saturday, December 6th at Hofstra University in Hempstead.
The Jingle Bell Run is a spirited, family-friendly 5K fundraising event that brings the community
together to champion the Arthritis Foundation’s mission: fighting for a cure and championing the fight against the nation’s leading cause of disability. Participants are encouraged to wear holiday-themed costumes, tie jingle bells to their shoes and celebrate the season while supporting a meaningful cause. The run begins at 10:30 am!
“All proceeds from the Jingle Bell Run support cutting-edge research, advocacy, and lifechanging resources for the more than 60 million Americans — including 300,000 children — living with arthritis,” said Alexis Stone, Executive Director, Arthritis Foundation, NYC. “It’s a fun, festive way to make a difference in the lives of those affected by arthritis right here in our
Continued On 16
NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, NOV. 20th
6:00PM-7:45PM
PAUMANACKE GARDEN CLUB OF WANTAGH
Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave. in Wantagh. A demonstration of Autumn centerpieces and tablescapes to decorate the Thanksgiving table. Floral arrangements will be raffled off. Lite refreshments will be served after the demonstration. For more information contact paumanackegc@ gmail.com
FRIDAY, NOV. 21st
6:00PM-9:00PM, SATURDAY, NOV. 22nd and SUNDAY NOV. 23rd
11:00AM-5:00PM
ST. JAMES MODEL RAILROAD CLUB OPEN HOUSE
The parking lot for the Train Show is located at: 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James. There is a suggested donation, Adults $2.00, Children .50 *PLEASE NOTE: The St. James Model Railroad Club is not handicapped accessible* For more information call evenings 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732
SATURDAY, NOV. 22nd
9:30AM-3:00PM
HOLIDAY FAIR
Gift Basket Raffles & Chinese Auction, Boutique Items, Crafts, Granny’s Attic, Lunch Available. Santa Will Be Here! Community Presbyterian Church, 1843 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. Free Admission / No Vendors. For more information, please call 631-242-0221
10:00AM–3:00PM THRIFT SHOP AND YARD SALE
MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Come one, Come all to St. Patrick’s Church, 305 Carll’s Path in Deer Park. New and slightly used clothes, shoes, jewelry, household items, books, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, arts and crafts. Rent a table for $25.00. For more information, please call 631-242-7530
2:00PM-4:00PM RELIGION CONCERT
Give Me That Old Time Religion Concert featuring soprano soloist Kathryn Wilson. Come and enjoy a concert of those old hymns you rarely hear or sing anymore. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave., in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690 A free will offering will be taken.
SUNDAY, NOV. 23rd
10:00AM-3:00PM
HOLIDAY FAIR
2025 Massapequa Chamber of Commerce Holiday Fair at Memorare Caterers, 2183A Jackson Ave. in Seaford. Welcome the holiday season with this exciting event – including holiday shopping and lots of fun and festivities for the family! FREE photos with Santa 1100AM-1:00PM. Please bring a toy donation for a Free raffle. For more information, please call 516541-1443
TUESDAY, NOV. 25th
8:30AM
BUS TRIP TO WIND CREEK CASINO
BETHLEHEM, PA
Hosted by Joseph Barry Columbiettes. $60 pp, includes the driver’s tip. $35 slot play. Please Arrive at 8:30 a.m. Return approx. 8:30 p.m. Parking: 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end).
For more information, please call Barbara 516-935-5576
SATURDAY, NOV. 29th
10:00AM-4:00PM
SNOWFLAKE SALE AND WINTER OPEN HOUSE
The Bay Shore Historical Society annual Snowflake Sale and Winter Open House. Stop by their Small Business Saturday sale at 22 Maple Ave. in Bay Shore. Enjoy holiday deals and explore their historic Bay Shore exhibits.There will be a visit from Victorian Santa beginning at 11:00am; stop by with your camera for a free family photo opportunity. For more information, please call 631-665-1700, email: bayshohissoc@ optonline.net
SUNDAY, NOV. 30th
8:30AM-4:00PM CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
Join us for the Ss. Cyril & Methodius Christmas Craft Fair in the church hall. 125 Half Hollow Road in Deer Park. Shop from a variety of vendors. Enjoy basket raffles, 50/50s, and festive treats while supporting local artisans. For more information, please call Mike Gonzalez at 917-705-5355
9:00AM-11:00AM BREAKFAST W/SANTA
Brumidi Lodge: Sons & Daughters of Italy Includes: Scrambled Eggs, Pancakes, Sausages Muffins, Coffee, Tea & Juice. Ages 3 & under FREE, 4-12 $12, 13+ $18 Bring your own camera for photos with SANTA Reservations & Info: Karen 631-9433622. 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park, www.sonsofitalyli.com
Why Car Washes Are Important
Taking care of a vehicle involves more than just maintaining the equipment under the hood. Car washes keep a vehicle shiny and clean, which can help it look good while sitting in the driveway or cruising the highway. However, regular car washes are more than cosmetic.
• Protection from the sun: A car that is routinely and properly washed and waxed is less vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
• Extend the life of paint: Dirt and debris can build up on the paint surface and eventually lead to scratches and other damage. Bird droppings and sap can be corrosive. Washing will help remove grime and protect the paint in the process.
• Preserve the vehicle’s value: Drivers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicles in the future should realize that a wellmaintained car can bring in as much as 20 percent more for above-average condition, according to Kelley Blue Book. Maintaining a clean and shiny vehicle can protect its long-term value.
• Remove salt: Drivers who live near the ocean or in areas where roads are salted in the winter to melt snow may have cars with high salt corrosion rates. Unless it’s washed off frequently, salt can take its toll, leading to damage.
• Improve fuel efficiency: Drivers have felt pain in their wallets at the fuel pump in recent years. Dirty cars may be less aerodynamic and less fuel-efficient as a result. Keeping a car clean may improve its fuel efficiency.
• Maintain the interior: Car washes are not only about the exterior. Keeping a clean and tidy interior can help improve the air quality inside of the vehicle and prolong the life of upholstery, mats and interior components.
Tips To Simplify Big-Batch Baking
The holiday season is upon us and for many of us, that means baking is back on the agenda! Unlike baking for a small celebration or a simple late-night indulgence, baking during this time of year often means scaling upcreating larger batches and a wider variety of goodies to satisfy a large crowd or to distribute to many of your loved ones. The process can feel daunting, even for experienced bakers, as it requires extra planning, organization and time. But there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. With a few thoughtful strategies and practical tips, you can make your baking experience this holiday season not only manageable but truly enjoyable.
• Use reliable, vetted recipes. When it comes time to bake in bulk, stick to recipes that have been tried before and are successful. Choosing recipes that you know well and can replicate time and again with ease means it may be simpler to multiply that recipe on a larger scale.
• Pick short-baking recipes. If you must bake in bulk, choose recipes that don’t have long bake times. For example, one cheesecake can take two hours to bake, while you can make scores of cupcakes or cookies in that same amount of time.
• Prep as much in advance as possible. If you have more complicated recipes or designs, spread out the work over several
BlackBlack Friday Sales
Friday sales have become a staple of the holiday shopping season. On Black Friday, many items are deeply discounted, and shoppers often target high-profile, expensive electronics. In fact, according to the retail advisor and trend forecaster NerdWallet, technology products are among the most sought-after products among Black Friday shoppers. Each year, televisions, tablets, laptops, notebooks, smartphones, and gaming consoles fly off the shelves in record numbers on Black Friday. According to the shopping resource Deal News, shoppers poised to purchase one of the latest smartphone offerings this shopping season may find that Android products are more available and more heavily discounted than Apple products. Shoppers also may have their eyes on gadgets for their homes. Black Friday isn’t all about technology, however. Kitchen cookware and small appliances also attract shoppers on Black Friday. Typically high-priced items like stand mixers, brewing systems, vacuums, and blenders are popular among Black Friday shoppers.
days. For cupcakes adorned with chocolate candies, for example, melt and mold the chocolate beforehand so each candy is ready to go when the cupcakes are done. Batters and doughs also can be made in advance and then refrigerated until needed. The French phrase “mise en place” means “everything in its place.” In cooking and baking, it refers to the practice of preparing and organizing all ingredients and equipment before cooking begins. This also is a worthwhile strategy when baking in bulk.
• Save on ingredients. Shopping sales or at a warehouse center can help you save on large quantities of butter, flour, sugar, and other items when baking in bulk.
• Create a schedule. Figure out how long each step for baking will take and then block out a schedule. This will help you determine how long each bake will take, and you can sort tasks according to need and freshness. Build in buffer time for things that may go awry.
• Have extra gear. Doubles or triples of certain gear can keep stopping and cleaning up between batches to a minimum. For example, while you may not have room for multiple stand mixers, you can invest in two or three bowls so you can have batter ingredients ready to go and then simply run through the
Air Fry Your Latkes This Chanukah
Foodfigures prominently in many holiday celebrations, and Chanukah is no exception. Latkes are considered a must-have in many households celebrating Chanukah, and there’s no shortage of recipes to try this holiday season. Those who want to take a more unique approach to latkes can consider air frying, which is a method of preparing popular fried foods that is credited with being healthier than traditional frying. Chanukah celebrants who find that appealing can try this recipe for “Potato Latkes” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Directions:
1. Coarsely grate potatoes on a box grater; alternatively, use grater attachment on a food processor for uniform pieces.
2. Submerge potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Drain well and wring out in a clean dish towel to extract as much moisture as possible.
3. Beat eggs in a large mixing bowl with half the salt. Whisk in matzo meal and cornstarch or potato starch.
4. Add dried potato to egg mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine. Divide and shape into four large latkes, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
5. Dust with more cornstarch (or potato starch, whichever using), gently shaking or brushing off excess. Season with remaining salt.
6. Preheat air fryer to 380 F. Spritz basket with cooking spray before carefully arranging latkes in it.
7. Cook for 8 minutes. Turn and cook for a further 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown all over.
8. Remove from air fryer and let cool briefly before serving with a garnish of sour cream and chives.
Note: Alternatively you can fry in a greased frying pan for about 3 to 4 minutes per side till golden and crispy.
Makes 4 servings
3 large russet potatoes, peeled
2 eggs
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons matzo meal
1 tablespoon cornstarch or potato
starch, plus extra for dusting
Cooking spray
Sour cream, to serve
1 tablespoon chives, snipped
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
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Deer Park 2nd Annual Animal Blessing And Adoption
On Saturday, November 8th, the Knights of Columbus - Our Lady of the Rosary Council in Deer Park held their second annual Animal Blessing and Adoption. The Second Chance Animal Rescue brought various dogs for adoption, and donations were collected. The blessings were given by Pastor Anthony Saliba of St. Cyril & Methodius Church. Many thanks to Deputy Grand Knight Jamie Monaco for holding this event.
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