Hundreds of brave and enthusiastic souls, wearing only swimwear, hats, and mittens, took a chilly plunge (some a cringing wade) into the Long Island Sound on a recent Saturday morning. They were “Freezin’ for a Reason” — the fourth New York Special Olympics. It included music and prizes and just a lot of silly, chilly fun.

This year, as for nearly all of this country’s history, thousands of American families will spend the holiday season far away from loved ones; sons, daughters, fathers, and mothers; all of whom are serving their country in the armed services. A number of Rye families are part of this group, though many of us know little of who they are or of the sacrifices they make each and every day.

The Little Garden Club of Rye hosted “Berries and Branches”, a grand garland boutique and luncheon, December 7 at American Yacht Club. Over 200 guests attended, and the many stunning arrangements and wreaths made by club members quickly sold out. Rita Schubert, Connie Macleod, and Dolores Eyler co-chaired the event.

For twenty-seven years Rye Recreation has helped us into the holidays with their annual bonfire and sing-a-long. This year’s fun, festive, and well-attended event featured a pre-bonfire magic show with Justin the Magician. Mayor Doug French opened the festivities with a few words to the children in attendance, telling them that the bonfire was the mayor’s signal to Santa that Rye’s children have “been very good this year.” Holiday carols were led by the talented Hand to Mouth Players. The city’s police and fire departments ensured everyone’s safety throughout the bonfire.

While most dog owners consider their pooch part of the family, some of them consider theirs to be the No. 1 family member. That makes that person easy to shop for.

The Rye Garden Club’s model green home has been “mobile” the last two years. Now it has found what everyone hopes will be a permanent home, at the Jay Heritage Center. 

Vintage Rye: A Tale of Two Toms

Tom Hagele and Tom Nordman, collectively, worked on Purchase Street for nearly a century. They were volunteer Rye Firemen for as long a time, 50 years apiece.

I’ve been happily married for over 20 years, but there is one issue that always seems to get in the way of our fully enjoying our lives as a couple.  The trouble is I’m a social person and my husband isn’t.

Another year dawns, and with it the chance for new tasting adventures. For your New Year’s celebration try some different sorts of bubblies. Maybe Prosecco (Mionetto, Nino Franco) from Italy, or Cava (Llopart, Segura Viudas) from Spain. Prosecco is the lighter and smoother of the two. Cava is more rustic and fuller-bodied. While both are enjoyable on their own, they are also outstanding complements to an entire meal, from appetizers to desserts.

The Committee to Save the Bird Homestead will present the Beauty and Power of Trees, a nature walk on the Meeting House and Bird Homestead grounds December 30 at 3 p.m. Naturalist Alison Beall will lead the program. Now that the leaves are down, the structure of trees can be seen more clearly.