Rockville Centre Community update - Dec. 3, 2009

On the board

Zoning Board Meeting

Dec. 9, 8 p.m., Village Hall

Planning Board Meeting

Dec. 14, 7 p.m., Village Hall

Board of Trustees Meeting

Dec. 15, 8:15 p.m., Village Hall

Board of Trustees Briefing

Dec. 29, 7 p.m., Village Hall

Community events

RVC Mercy League House Tour

The annual Holiday House Tour will take place on Dec. 4 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets, for $35 , are on sale at the Garden Gate (323 Sunrise Highway) after Nov. 23. For more information, call (516) 608-0143. After the tour there will be a gathering at Chadwicks with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar.

Nutcracker Suite Ballet

The Rockville Centre Guild for the Arts and Leggz Ltd. Dance will present a full-length production of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” with live music by the South Shore Symphony on Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. at South Side High School, 140 Shepherd Street. Tickets are $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and students. Call (516) 766-7171 for more information and tickets.

Christmas Fair   

The United Church, 430 Morris Ave., will hold its annual Christmas fair on Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. This year, in addition to home baked goods, homemade soups, new gift items, knitted items, poinsettias and the cafe, there will be items for sale from two estates. China and collectibles from Lenox, Royal Dalton, Ansley, Bing and Grundal, Wedgewood and Shelly as well as Nippon pieces will be for sale along with Victorian glassware, pressed glass, cut glass and Depression glass.  RVC Choral Society Winter Concert

The RVC Choral Society’s Winter Concert will take place on Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. in St. James Methodist Church (St. James Place & Forest Avenue, in Lynbrook). Tickets are $8 at the door (children under 12 free).The chorus encourages anyone who has an interest in singing to join its community-based group. New members can join in January to sing in the Spring Concert in May. Contact the Choral Society at (516) 561-1315, or visit www.rvcchoralsociety.net.

Friends of Mercy Ball

Dec. 5 at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. The evening will include awards for long-time members of the medical center’s staff and Friends of Mercy, the Mercy Honor Guard, Marine Corps Color guard escorting and presenting dignitaries to the bishop, a sumptuous dinner and dancing into the night. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and complete event information, visit www.MercyBall.com or call the Development Department at (516)

705-2620.

An Exploration of Faith

Come celebrate the holidays as your neighbors of various faiths do on Dec. 6 at Molloy College’s Hays Theatre in the Wilbur Arts Center. Hindus, g’Hai, Brahma Kumari, Jainists, Muslims and Unitarian Universalists will be present to discuss their beliefs. For more information, contact Marion Lowenthal at (516) 678-5000 ext. 6880.

Crafts Fair and Flea Market

The Recreation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Road, will be the site of the Rockville Centre Parks and Recreation Department’s annual Holiday Crafts Fair and Flea Market on Dec. 6. There will be a large assortment of merchandise for everyone’s shopping pleasure. The fair is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission and plenty of free parking. For more information, call (516) 678-9338 and ask for Joe Nemeth.

Fortnightly Christmas Celebration

On Dec. 8, the Fortnightly Club will celebrate the Christmas Season with a performance by a South Side Middle School music ensemble. Lunch will also be served. The meeting starts at noon at St. Mark's Methodist Church, 200 Hempstead Ave.

“Substance Abuse Among Teens”

The Rockville Centre Youth Council invites parents and teens to a presentation and discussion presented by Phoenix House staff and teen clients, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Rockville Centre Public Library, 221 N. Village Ave. The presentation will include: Current trends of alcohol/drug use among teens; Classification of illegal drugs and Rx/OTC drugs; Health risks, including HIV infection; Peer pressure and resistance skills; Alternatives to alcohol/drug use; Impact of alcohol/drug use on family and friends; Consequences (academic, legal, health, etc.); Goal-setting; Seeking help/treatment for alcohol or drug use. The event is co-sponsored by Confide Drug and Alcohol Counseling and South Side High School’s SADD and Youth Decide clubs. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook site at RVC Youth Council.

Mercy Medical Center’s Christmas Tree Lighting

The Council of Leagues of Mercy Medical Center invites the community to join in its annual Tree of Lights holiday celebration on Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. Lights can be purchased for the tree in memory of a loved one, to celebrate an event, in honor of someone special and remembrances are recorded in a book displayed in the hospital’s lobby through the holidays. Proceeds will be used to establish a full service beauty salon for patients. A special Mass on Jan. 12 at noon will be held for all those remembered. For information, call (516) 705-1833.

North Pole Calling

Children in kindergarten through grade 2 can speak directly with Santa again this year. To receive a call on Dec. 8 or 9, fill out an information sheet at the Recreation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Road.

RVC Mercy League’s

Christmas Luncheon

The group’s annual event will take place at Frank’s Steaks on Lincoln Avenue on Dec. 9 at 11:15 -2:15. Cost is $40 per person. For reservations, call (516) 678-0687.

Nassau Woman’s Club Meeting

The community is invited to join the next Nassau Woman’s Club meeting on Dec. 9 at noon at the United Church of Rockville Centre, 430 Morris Ave. They will have a “Christmas fingertip luncheon” and a social afternoon. For more information, call (516) 764-6221..

Village Christmas Tree Lighting

Rockville Centre’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at 7:30 p.m. on the Village Green, Maple and Lee avenues, on Dec. 10.Santa and his helpers will be on hand to add to the festivities. The evening of song and fellowship will will be followed by Christmas at the Captain’s at the Phillips House Museum, 28 Hempstead Ave.

Annual B’nai Sholom Bazaar

The annual bazaar at the temple, 100 Hempstead Ave., will be held on Dec. 12 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; on Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. and on Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It features a variety of merchandise including clothing, toys, housewares, shoes and electronics. For more information, call (516) 764-4100.

Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe

Dec. 12 at the Church of the Ascension, 71 N. Village Ave., from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Back by popular demand, the Christmas Shoppe returns for one day only. The Old Rectory, located on the grounds of the church, will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland for this special event. The community is invited to stop in; browse and shop for Christmas gifts, decorations, gift baskets, Christmas cookies and baked goods and join in a day full of good, old fashioned Christmas Spirit. Santa, Mrs. Claus and a very special elf are expected to visit.

Chanuplex

The entire community is invited to the fourth annual Chanukah celebration on Dec. 13 at Central Synagogue, 430 DeMott Ave. from 2:30-5:15. Activities include a puppet show and singalong, arts and crafts, games, movies and popcorn for the pre-school set. For older kids and teens, there will be games and DDR and Guitar Hero in the youth lounge. Adults can enjoy an Oscar-nominated film, “The Collector of Bedford Street.” Everyone can enjoy live music and refreshments in the coffee house, Israeli dancing, the Chanukah House shop, challah-making instruction, and knitting and crocheting for charity. Everyone is welcome — you do not have to be a member of the synagogue or live in Rockville Centre. Admission is canned goods, monetary donations or gift cards to help local food pantries and shelters. RSVP to the temple office at (516) 766-4300 by Dec. 7. A menorah lighting will take place at 5:30 p.m.

The Messiah at St. Agnes Cathedral

George Friederich Handel’s great oratorio,“The Messiah,” will be presented on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Agnes Cathedral, 29 Quealy Place. This is a special opportunity to hear this great masterwork right here in the village’s own cathedral. Enjoy this festive traditional music sung by the Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys, the Chorale, soloists, and orchestra, led by Michael L. Bower.The suggested ticket donation is $15 and $10. For more information, call (516) 764.9578 or visit www.stagnescathedral.org.

Breakfast with Santa’s Helpers

The annual event, sponsored by Rockville Centre’s Parks and Recreation Dept. with plenty of support from local volunteers and businesses, is set for Dec. 13 with seatings at 9:15, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. All faiths are invited to join elves who serve pancakes cereal, juice,milk, rolls and bagels. Children may visit with Santa or have a picture taken with Rudolph and Frosty. The deadline for tickets is Dec. 11. The fee is $5 per person.

Chanukah Party

The annual Chanukah Party at the Recreation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Road, will take place on Dec. 14 from 5-6:30 p.m. Children of all faiths are invited.There will be crafts, face painting, snacks and Chanukah music. Children are encouraged to donate a small unwrapped gift. The event is co-sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women.

Community Menorah Lighting

Dec. 16 at 6:15 p.m. at Temple B’nai Sholom,Lakeview and Hempstead avenues.

At the Library

221 N. Village Ave.

(516) 766-6257

The Library’s Career Center

is now open on Saturdays. Five computers available for your job search needs. All computers are equipped with Win-Way Resume Preparation software, MS Word and Office programs. Internet access and bookmarked job search Web sites. Printing available for resumes and cover letters. Hours of Operation: Mondays 9 a.m.-noon, Tuesdays 1-5 p.m., Wednesdays 6-9 p.m. Also available: one-to-one career counseling Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m. by appointment. Contact the Adult Reference Desk for details.

This week at the library:

Dec. 3

Picasso, Braque, Matisse and Arp: Creative Collage

Presented by Emilia Rabito Baer, from 1-2:30 p.m. Participants must register at the Adult Reference Desk for this interactive lecture and workshop on the art of collage. Consult flyers for materials list.

Tween Parent/Son Book Club

7 p.m. Don’t miss the chance to discuss the popular title “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, the first in the series of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Participants should be in grades 5 & 6. Sign up at the Adult Reference Desk.

Dec. 4

Mothers’ Center Circle

10 a.m. Join this popular group discussing the “transition to motherhood” and make new friends as you discuss child development and parenting issues.

Friday Films

2 p.m. This week’s film is ” The Class” (2008). Teacher and novelist Francois Begaudeau plays a version of himself as he negotiates a year with his racially mixed students in a tough Parisian neighborhood. Director, Laurent Cantet. Starring Francois Begaudeau, Arthur Fogel. Rated PG-13 for language. 128 minutes.

Dec. 7

Simply Stronger Exercise Program

11:30 a.m. Join instructor Marilyn Bunger for this popular class of low impact strengthening exercises. Participants must be registered to attend. There is a $10 nonrefundable fee for a six class session. Details and registration at the Adult Reference Desk.

Dec. 8

Yoga with Joe

1 p.m. Lyengar yoga instructor Joe Cilmi leads this popular class. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat or soft towel. There is a nonrefundable $10 per six week session registration fee for this program! Register in advance at the Adult Reference Desk.

Dec. 9

Evening Books

7:30 p.m. Edna Ritzenberg leads this lively book group in discussing “Olive Kitteridge” by Elizabeth Strout.

Knit 1, Purl 2

1 p.m. Join this circle of knitters! All levels and abilities welcome. Beginning knitters should bring #9 needles and chunky wool. Staring this month Knit 1, Purl 2 will meet weekly!

Dec. 10

3rd & 4th Grade Book Chat 4 p.m. Today’s selection is “Bunnicula” by James Howe. Ever heard of a vampire bunny? Join in the discussion and enjoy some yummy treats too!

The following art will be featured throughout the month of December: Upper Concourse Gallery: Japan Up Close: Photography by Jen Marino; Lower Concourse Gallery: Watercolors by Jean Harper; Display Cases: Accessories by Jill McManus; The Helen Kraus Community Room Gallery: Panoramic Photography by Jack McCoy.

At the Rec Center

111 N. Oceanside Road

(516) 678-9338 or 9339

Thinking of others

Operation Christmas Child

The Rec Center is collecting school supplies and toiletries for needy children. Donations, which must be in their original packaging, may be made Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the center. Call the center for more information.

Annual Mitten and Hat Tree

Once again, the Parks and Recreation Center is requesting that residents share their warm holiday feelings with those less fortunate. Beginning Dec. 3, donated mittens and hats of every color and size will be hung on the “Mitten and Hat” tree in the Rec. Center lobby.

Food Donations

The Rec. Center is collecting canned and dry goods, as well as frozen turkeys and coupons. Bring donations Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. prior to Dec. 16 for the Christmas holidays.

Have a Heart Toys for Tots Square Dance

Bring an unwrapped new toy for admission to this square dance on Dec. 20 from 7-10 p.m. World famous called Lee Kopman will be the master of ceremonies.

New Program: Connor and Friends

One Sunday a month from 2:30-4 p.m., trained recreation personnel provide a fun and safe activity environment for children with special needs, including autism and Down Syndrome. These playdates must be reserved with Paul Lawless at MPLawless@verizon.net.

The Rec Center’s winter program begins the week of Jan. 4

At the Sandel Center

50 South Park Ave.

(516) 678-9350

Any RVC senior 60 years or older is encouraged to find out about the programs and services offered. A staff member will be happy to discuss membership with you.

Special Events:

Food Collection

During the month of December members of the community are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable foods to the Sandel Senior Center. Donations will be distributed to needy families in our community.

St. Agnes Boys Choir

Dec. 2 at 1:30. The angelic voices of the St. Agnes Boys Choir in a special musical performance brought to Sandel by St. Agnes Music Director Michael Bower.

Center Stage Luncheon and Performance

Dec. 9 at noon. Members of the Sandel Center Stage Choral Group perform a holiday concert. A holiday meal tops off the afternoon. $5 pp ($6 the day of the event).

Naomi Zeitlin

Dec. 11 at 1 p.m. Singer, guitarist and songwriter, Naomi performs with a joy and enthusiasm that is highly contagious. The afternoon will also include Chanukah themed treats. $3 pp ($4 the day of the event).

Intergenerational Holiday Party

Dec.18 at 1 p.m. South Side High School students will entertain. Following the concert, there will be time to share holiday treats and conversation with the visiting students.

Tuesday Topics:

Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. Identity Theft – James W. Reed, from the Nassau County Office of Consumer Affairs, presents “Protect Yourself from Scams.”

Ongoing:

Lions Recycle

The Sandel Center is now an official drop-off point for used or broken prescription eyeglasses, non-prescription sunglasses, old hearing aids and old cell phones. Donations can be brought in on Monday - Friday from 9 to 5.

Social Work Services

Social Work supervisor Wendy Weinstock, MSW, is available for private consultation on a range of Social Work services such as housing and transportation as well as individual and group counseling. Call Wendy at 516-536-1162 for an appointment.

Religious Events

Advent Lessons and Carols

The 120-voice Diocesan Choir of Rockville Centre will present Advent Lessons and Carols on Dec. 6 at 3:30 p.m .at the Cathedral of St. Agnes. Bishop William Murphy will preside. The 45-minute service consists of scripture readings, choral anthems and hymns taken from the Advent season, which proclaim hope to a world waiting in darkness. This year the choir will premier a new work by Rev. Michael Joncas which is a setting of the ancient Latin text “Rorate Coeli.” Another highlight of the service will be a reading of the Annunciation story. For more information, contact the Diocesan Worship Office at (516) 678-5800, ext. 504. A free will offering will be taken. All are welcome.

Three Kings from the Orient to visit United Church

For over 75 years, the Three Kings have made an appearance at the United Church of Rockville Centre's White Gift Pageant. You can see them (the shepherds, angels, Joseph and Mary, too) this year at the church, 430 Morris Ave., on Dec. 13 at 5 p.m. The pageant, a community event, consists of carol singing, the Christmas Story dramatized by youngsters and adults dressed in full costume and the offering of gifts wrapped in white tissue which will be distributed to The INN, a nonsectarian organization that supports local families. The whole community is invited to the program which emphasizes the real meaning of the Christmas season.

Special Needs Mass

The Parish of St. Agnes Cathedral welcomes all to its monthly Mass for special needs children of all ages and their families. The next scheduled Masses are on Dec. 19 and Jan. 23. All of these Masses are held on Saturdays at 5 p.m. in the Lower Hall of the Msgr. Melton Auditorium which is handicapped accessible through the Parish Center.