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City Guide in Milan

Yvonne Bonasera holds a Bachelors 
degree in International Business from LIU and JCU in Rome, Italy. In addition to being the Director of Operations at LICC, she is a travel consultant/blogger and teaches Italian. Yvonne has visite­­­d over 30 countries across 5 continents. She can be reached at ymbtravel.com.

    Milan isn’t what most people think of when imagining “Old World” Italy. Offering a blend of style and luxury with subtle hints of tradition, it’s modern, edgy, and chic. Milan is the center of commerce, banking, and design; Italians flock here ­­for work.
    For tourists, Milan is the quickest route to Italy. The city is perfectly situated for day trips to Venice, Isola Bella, Lake Como, Bergamo, and Florence from Centrale station. Getting around is simple by foot or public transportation– which is reliable, affordable and safe. A day pass grants access to the buses, trams and subways that serve most of the city.
    The Sicilian cafe, Lu Bar, serves the city’s best cappuccino in a quaint glass atrium. Have an aperitivo at Dry Milano or one of the posh rooftop restaurants such as, Palazzo Matteotti or Ceresio 
7 for stunning views of Milan. Head to La Chiesetta–a unique former church turned bar– or reserve one of only eight tables at Piccola Cucina.  What it lacks in size, it makes up for in authentic, flavorful cuisine. 
    After window shopping some of the world’s most elaborate displays on Via Montenapoleone, try one of the premiere designer restauants such as, Emporio Armani Caffè. Although it’s dubbed a fashion capital, fashionistas aren’t the only ones who get to appreciate the city’s decadence. The glass roof and vaulted arcades of the world’s oldest mall, Galleria Vittorio, date back to 1861. People watch in the Piazza del Duomo and admire the gothic architecture of the breathtaking 1386 cathedral. After all, it took nearly six centuries to complete. 
    Milan isn't all glitz and glam, it’s also filled with culture. Explore the Castello Sforzesco before a world-class performance at La Scala, the famous opera house. Arcimboldi Theatre offers opera as well as ballet and modern dance. Schedule a viewing of Il Cenacolo (The Last Supper), the mural tucked away in an old church painted by da Vinci himself. For contemporary art, check out Fondazione Prada. 
    Visit the canals of Navigli, 
a neighborhood known for the artsy bars where locals fill the streets of Colonne di San Lorenzo. Make reservations at Quei Due for an outstanding, traditional Neapolitan, brick oven pizza. Finally, escape the hustle and bustle at QC Terme for a day of relaxation at the Roman style thermal baths. 
    Though often overlooked, Milan is a true masterpiece where history, art, fashion and gastronomy come together.

 

Spring 2019

Jessica Baumgartner is the creator and author of a blog for parents that includes humorous tales, travel information and product reviews. Jessica can be reached at momonthego@woutanet.com 

After a spring cleaning–to fill the extra room in your closet–add new spring statement pieces to update your existing staples. This spring, tie-dye is making a big comeback. Layering tie-dyes over florals has been seen on the runways as a modern update. A great place to get tie-dye items at a reasonable price is Venus.com. They carry tanks, blouses and cold shoulder tops from $19.99 to $34.99. 
    Your next purchase should be an investment in some new shades. Micro, triangle and shield-shaped frames are trending for the spring and makes a statement to any spring outfit. Freestyleextreme.com carries a pair for everyone, and offers free shipping on purchases over $99.95. 
    Another look that has been spotted on the runways: board shorts in muted jewel tones paired with fitted or tailored tops. This look is great for a casual event or weekend adventure. Thesmoothshop.com is selling endless summer 4.5 inch board shorts starting at $40 with free shipping and 10% off your first purchase. 
    The spring silhouette has shifted this year and has moved away from the fluid style to a sharper look. Tailored pants and skirts are paired with more fitted tops; pulled together with statement pieces like bright belts, ornate jewelry and shoes that pop rather than match. The result is a clean, tailored and put together ­look for fun and work. 
    As you shop for your night out dress, invest in a ruched dress in jewel tones. Ruched ­dresses are forgiving to any figure. They give curves to slimmer figures and stretch in the right places for a curvier silhouette. A great budget friendly option is lulus.com (Adore me black mash Roos dress) for $40. For an investment piece, try White House Black Market. They carry a stunning ruched sheath dress for $180 in sizes 00 to 16. 
    Bodysuits continue to remain popular this spring because of their fit and ease of wear. Styled with wide leg trousers or flowing skirt; a bodysuit provides the tailored elements to tie the look together. 
    To finish your look, cover your feet in bold colors like coral, cobalt, lavender, neon and seafoam green. Pumps, loafor heels, animal print, sling backs, logo sandals, braided leather, peep toed mesh booties and feather detailed sandals will be seen on every street and beach this spring and summer. 

 

Dutch Oven Cooking

Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community as a writer and mentor. She enjoys cooking, traveling and singing in her Long Island-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by email at 
LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com. 

    I love to cook. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit: it has become the hobby of my late 20s. I’m often inspired by a recipe I see, or an ingredient I’m craving. Lately, my inspiration has come from a game changing cooking vessel: my Dutch Oven. I’d love to tell you my pantry encompasses the new Le Creuset spring collection, but I haven’t reached that point of financial freedom yet. Instead, I visited my neighborhood Target and purchased the Lodge Cast Iron Enamel Dutch Oven. I did my research, and according to my fellow frugal foodies, this was the best pick. 
    Prior to this purchase, my favorite cooking vessel had been my cast iron skillet. (Also Lodge. No, this isn’t an ad.) I found my cast iron skillet to be an effortless, and indestructible tool – worthy of everything from burgers to homemade pizza to cookie crumbles. While I still love my cast iron, I must admit – I am in awe of the Dutch oven. This mighty, inexpensive receptacle has created some of the best meals I’ve ever made. Everything from Chicken Scarpariello to Mussells to Beef Bourguignon. Seriously, it’s incredible what this thing can do.
    My most recent recipe recreation comes from the Foodie Goddess herself, Ina Garten. While I could easily use this opportunity to share my love of The Barefoot Contessa, I will instead walk you through one of her most wonderful recipes: Coq Au Vin. A classic French “stew” consisting of braised chicken, red wine and some brandy (yum). This description doesn’t do the dish justice. The gist of this magical meal? Brown bacon over medium heat for 8 minutes. Remove. Brown chicken (that has been patted very dry and liberally sprinkled with salt and pepper) in a single layer for about 5 minutes. Remove and plate with the bacon. Add carrots, onion, salt, pepper and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute. Add Cognac and put the bacon and chicken back into the Dutch Oven. Add wine, chicken stock, thyme and bring to a simmer. Cover with lid and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes. In a separate sauce pan: Add butter, flour, onions and mushrooms. Add to the stew, and finish in the oven for 10 minutes. Voila! Simple, luxurious, delicious. 
    The Dutch Oven is wonderful for these hearty entrees, a perfect vessel for browning and transferring to the oven for finishing. Think: Stews, Chili, Wine-Braised Short Ribs, Pulled Pork and more. Surprisingly, it’s also great for making homemade bread, Fried Chicken, Whole Chicken and Linguine & Clams. If you’re not convinced yet, I don’t know what else to tell you. Do your research, buy a Dutch Oven, and get to cooking!

 

Bring On…THE SUNSHINE

Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident and freelance writer. She is a licenced agent at Signature Premier
Properties, Platinum Circle of Excellence, 172 Main Street, Northport 631-754-3600. Denise enjoys cooking and sharing her recipes and family stories, as she wants to inspire a warm sense of home with her readers. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.

My trip to South West Florida proved fruitful again with a delicious refreshing Key Lime Pie. The taste was absolutely irresistible and I definitely will be making this for my family and friends real soon. I’m not big on sweet deserts, but this pie had the perfect combination of tart and sweet. The filling was only made better with a delicious buttery graham crust. It was joyfully presented in person by the talented Chef Leory.  Thank you Chef and thank you to our “passion to please” server, Johnathan, who convinced me to give this Florida favorite a try at The Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina’s Restaurant, Rae’s on the Beach. Wow! A vibrant classic desert in southern Florida, especially in The Keys, for over a century; I’m happy I didn’t wait much longer to sample. A truly refreshing taste of sunshine, anytime! ENJOY!! Dishin’ With Denise

Graham Cracker Crust:
7 T melted butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
¼ t sea salt

Pie Filling:
1 ½ T of zest from limes
3 egg yolks
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened and condensed milk
¾ cup fresh lime juice

Topping: 
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ T sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Use about 12 graham crackers or so in a food processor. Place crumbs in a bowl, add butter, salt and sugar; mix until combined. Place crumbs into a 9-inch pie dish and pat down with your fingers to form a crust into plate, including the edges. Bake for 10 minutes or until light brown. Allow to cool.

Whip egg yolks and zest in a large bowl for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add lime juice, condensed milk and mix until combined. Pour mixture into graham crust and bake for 15 minutes. Pie will rise slightly. Allow to cool in refrigerator ~ about 2 hours.

Whip your cream and sugar with an electric mixer for a few minutes until stiff peaks form. Top the pie and garnish with extra lime zest.  

 

Try Other Cultures


Marie Torio is a NY based photographer specializing in food, restaurant, interior and editorial. Her website where she can be reached www.photosbymarietorio.com and her Instagram photosbymarietorio 
    The beauty about preparing food from other countries is that we can somewhat immerse ourselves into this particular part of the world without buying a plane ticket. Today I will share with you a few recipes I tried and enjoyed preparing. Looking back, I appreciate exploring the different varieties of seasonings and ingredients used to compose a dish; while of course, photographing them.
    Latin: I made a pastelon (sweet plantain lasagna). At first thought, you might not know what to make of the combination amongst the sweet plantain, savory chopped meat mixture and cheese. But let me assure you, it is fantastic. This  dish is a Puerto Rican specialty and perfect for a well rounded casserole option. The key is the sweet plantain and the way you achieve the sweetest pastelon is by picking the spotty or almost black plantains. The bold latin flavors come through in the meat mix because it is seasoned with adobo, cumin, salt, pepper; mixed with onions, chopped peppers, raisins, and olives, simmered with bay leaves and a bit of tomato sauce. The flavor profile is smokey because of the cumin, sweet because of the raisin, and the umami is hidden with the bits of olives. Delicious dish! 
    Thai: I stumbled upon a tofu pad thai recipe and was curious how it would turn out or if it would hold up being that I usually prefer chicken pad thai. I’m happy I attempted to make this and was pleased with the results. I like that this is a vegetarian option and the tofu is seared so it gets a nice, golden crust on the outside, soft on the inside and takes on the flavor of the noodles. The combination of tamari, sesame oil seasoning for the noodles mixed with carrots, cilantro, chopped peanuts and a splash of lime was comforting and zesty. Each bite was packed with flavor and texture. I Love this recipe! 
    Mediterrenean: Chicken shawarma quinoa platter. This is another dish that is packed with flavor. The chicken is cooked with turmeric, cumin, salt and pepper.  That being said, the rest of the plate is really simple; the pairing of the robust seasoned chicken, simple quinoa, cut cucumbers and tomatoes alongside the lemony tzatziki sauce, is a delightful bite! It is well rounded, healthy and makes 
you feel connected to the mediterrenean culture. 
    I am super proud with the results of each of these recipes. The dishes were absolutely delicious and something I would prepare again. I hope this will encourage you to try something different when it comes to your cooking and take advantage to photograph them as well. Have fun cooking and styling them on the plate.  Happy cooking and happy shooting!!

 

Daily Detox Tips


Dr. Dawn Siglain is a compassionate Naturopathic Doctor, Licensed Acupuncturist, & Reiki Practitioner who believes in the body’s innate ability to heal itself when treated with nature and 
understanding.  Combining both western and eastern modalities allows her to address patients’ needs in their own specific way.  Finding the root cause of disease allows for true healing.  Any questions please reach out: 
drdawn@innersourcehealth.com.  
Follow me IG: @drdawnnd & www.facebook.com/drdawnnd

As a Naturopathic Doctor, people often ask me, ‘How can I detox?’  My answer is always multi-faceted depending on the patient, yet with one empowering answer, ‘Right now & let me show you how!’ There are many things that you can start doing to flush out toxins. These daily habits should eventually become your lifestyle. We live in a world where toxins are in our water, food, and air we breathe. Instead of feeling defeated, take charge of your health today!

It’s important to consider detoxing as a lifestyle change. Detoxing used to mean dietary restrictions and taking a break from life to fully re-charge. However, we don’t live in a world where that’s possible, so our means of detoxing needs to adapt. I encourage introducing  good habits to support healthy detoxification instead of the concept of restrictions.
By detoxing daily, you are gently coursing toxins out of your liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system.  The key here is consistency.  The benefits of detoxing include increased energy, improved sleep, proper immunity, decreased brain fog, clear skin, bright eyes, shiny hair, fresh breath, weight loss, and optimal organ functioning.  

First and foremost, drink water.  Drink half of your body weight in ounces of filtered water.  For constipation, add a lemon squeeze to a cup of warm water first thing in the morning. You want to keep things moving! Beets promote healthy blood flow in vessels.  Eat a cup of dark leafy greens a day to cleanse your liver. Sulfur compounds found in garlic and onions also support the liver.  Fermented foods support your gut health such as sauerkraut, kimchi or pickles.

Think about how you treat your body.  Everything you put on your body, you would want to put in your body. Moisturize with organic coconut oil or EVOO.  Movement of muscles moves the lymph which promotes drainage.  Sweating releases toxins which takes a burden off of your kidneys. If exercising is an issue, consider vibrational therapy and IR(InfraRed) saunas. Other techniques to support drainage of toxins: dry brushing–before each shower, coconut oil–applied first thing in the morning, and Epsom salt baths.  

Be good to yourself everyday by following these simple guidelines.  Don’t stress about it.  Take it day by day and just try!  Stay tuned for my next article with more healthy ways to support a daily detox lifestyle.  For a free 15 minute consultation with Dr. Dawn please email: drdawn@innersourcehealth.com.

 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day By – Greening Your Kitchen


Natalie Weinstein is President of Natalie 
Weinstein Design Associates, The Natalie 
Weinstein Home Decorating Club and Uniquely Natalie, a quality consignment boutique. Enjoy Natalie’s Long Island Focus featured in House Magazine or call: 631-862-6198.
    Our ever-changing environment is everyone’s responsibility and we are learning that each of us must act to protect it. Of course, you’ve noticed that global warming has occurred, but I’m sure you didn’t realize that the hottest 21 years on record all occurred in the last 25 years! I know you’ve read that autism, AD/HD, allergy and Alzheimer’s disease, and many forms of cancer have increased (or have been more widely diagnosed). But why? Is it the air we’re breathing, the water we’re drinking, the food we’re eating? We’ve learned one thing, for sure. We can’t leave the responsibility to our political leaders. We need to be pro-active for ourselves, our environment and future generations. We need to learn more and do more – and we can.
    Since your kitchen is the hub of your home–the gathering place for friends and family– make sure the vegetable bin is not the only green present there. Start here and consider “going green” as you renovate; you can create major inroads into more eco-friendly, healthier living. 
    Beginning with cabinets, there is now an alternative to off-gassing particleboard called wheat board, which is a straw-based product. This material can be veneered with woods like maple, oak, mahogany, or raw wood; which can be painted (with low VOC paints, of course). Solid wood cabinetry can also be eco-friendly, if harvested from sustainable or managed forests. 
    Flooring made of natural stone products generally help save energy; keeping an area cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 
    Countertops fabricated from natural stone, like granite are practical and long lasting. However, quartz composites like CaesarStone (which is made by a company recycling almost all of the water used for production) are becoming more popular. 
    A popular look for backsplashes today is glass tile, often in a range of beautiful colors. Many companies create these completely from recycled glass. High-end manufacturers like Sub-Zero, Bosch and Viking carry the Energy Star labels, as well as many popular priced brands. Energy Star is definitely what to look for. Sub-Zero refrigerators use 15% less energy. Bosch dishwashers customize the temperature and water level to accommodate your load. One Viking induction cook top model is so efficient, it heats only the pot, not the stove, through magnetic energy. 
    The cleaning products under the kitchen sink need to be evaluated as well. Read the labels and make sure you are not spreading toxins on surfaces for your family to ingest. Back to basics, using vinegar, natural glycerin soap, lemon juice-based cleaners, borax and baking soda, your house will be just as clean and a lot safer for you. In addition, while you are cleaning those counter tops, unplug your appliances and help save energy. That really adds up.
    Do you have air or water filtration systems in your home? The kitchen faucet might be a good place to start your quest for healthier living. Remember, what we cannot see or taste can hurt us. 
    So, my advice is to learn more, do more, and be proactive for yourselves, your family and our planet. What better place to start than in our own kitchens?

 

Kat’s Calendar Picks

by Katherine Andrianas

The groundhog was right when he saw his shadow, Spring has sprung early this year! Now, we can hopefully look forward to enjoying some warmer weather. As we put the winter behind us, there are many events to be added to our calendar. So, if you’re looking to celebrate with something fun to do, check out what we’ve come up with!

80’s ARCADE & KARAOKE NIGHT
Cradle Of Aviation Museum Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City
Saturday, March 23rd
7:00PM-11:00PM    
For a night that consists of everything 80’s in the form of classic arcade games, karaoke and costume contests, head to the Cradle of Aviation Museum. There will be $1 raffles, over thirty different arcade machines and a chance to sing your hearts out to all your 80’s favorites. Whether you’re a gamer or just looking to show up in your best 80’s costume; shoulder pads, acid-washed jeans and big hair, all are welcome. If you haven’t purchased tickets already, buy them at the door for $20 per person.

SPEAKEASY NIGHT ON THE FARM
Jamesport Brewery, 5873 Sound Ave, Riverhead
Friday, March 23rd
6:00PM-10:00PM
    
Shh….don’t let the word out! Just show up dressed to impress wearing your best prohibition attire.  Featuring smooth jazz, live entertainment and prohibition era type cocktails, the Jamesport Brewery will take you for a blast into the past. For just $65 per person, the night will include delicious food catered by Christopher Michael Catering along with live performances. Although drinks will be sold separately at a cash bar, you get to enjoy some of the best locally grown and brewed craft beer or cider. To purchase tickets, call 844-532-2337.

THAW FEST: The Hamptons Arts Weekend
Several Locations
Friday March 22nd –
Sunday March 24th
The second annual Thaw Fest lets you enjoy a number of cultural events displayed through music, exhibits, tours and much more. With various locations on the south fork of Long Island including Southampton, Sag Harbor and East Hampton, each day of the festival will be more unique than the next. It will consist of all sorts of art-related events which take place at different museums, theaters and local venues. To check out who is performing where and when, visit www.hamptonsartsnetwork.org

Chef Competition
Grace United Methodist Church 515 South Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst
Saturday, March 23rd
6:00PM-9:00PM
    
The Grace United Methodist Church will host their 7th annual chef competition on March 23rd. If you have a passion for cooking and would like to participate, make sure to bring your favorite and most delicious entrée or dessert. If cooking is not your expertise, for just $10 per person, you can sample a variety of food and cast your vote. The event will allow chefs to display their talent and a prize will be given to the person with the most
votes. For more information, call the church office at 631-226-8690.    

 

 

Do YOU feel guilty for wanting more out of life?


Connie D. Henriquez is the fun, upbeat Health 
& Life Coach Expert and CEO of the premier lifestyle brand "Start Loving Life® ”; the most sought after, ridiculously simple, cutting edge life coaching philosophy of the personal development industry. For more information on how YOU can start living an AMAZING life, please visit: startlovinglife.com or call (631) 730-6434 to schedule your appointment today!  

    I remember in my early 20’s, sitting at a diner with an old friend catching up and discussing life. I recall being dissatisfied with where I was and pondering what was next. My friend said to me: “I feel as if you will never be happy. You are always wanting for the next. It’s as if you are never satisfied.” 
    He was right. I recall sitting there thinking,  “Geez, what is my problem?” and, “If this is my life, I am so screwed.”

Fast forward 10 years later…
    I finally have a new understanding of the conversation that night. It’s interesting when you realize that seemingly insignificant pieces of your past really do have significance. That night, I thought I had a problem. I feared going through life–never being crazy-excited about waking up each day–always wanting for more, never getting it, and being strangely disappointed. I thought I would be subjected to the same long career, typical marriage in my mid-twenties, and juggling some kids until they were old enough for college.  Definitely Ok for some people, but for me… Little did I realize that the exact opposite would soon happen and I would owe it to the conversation that night as my inspiration. 
    What I realized: I felt bad that night, but not because my friend was right. I felt bad, because that conversation revealed that I was focused in direct opposition to everything I ever wanted: a better job, more money, an awesome relationship, etc.   
I was allowing someone else’s perspective of me, based on their own limited thinking (unknowingly of course), to influence how I felt about myself and my desire to consistently grow. 

As a result, I came to a very clear understanding, one in which I appreciate my friend for bringing to attention…
    90% of the population is content with the status quo.  They begin a career, work hard all their lives, wake up on Monday looking forward to Friday, and count down the years to retirement. If that’s you and that makes you super happy, then great. But, if you are anything like me and find the status quo terribly boring and suffocating, then you are in luck.

What I finally realized is that there are 10% just like me, who believe life is about the evolution of YOU.  
    This means you are always going to be wanting for more. Long gone are the days when you pick one career and stick with it your entire life. Instead, you will create a goal, accomplish that goal and then move on to the next. There is nothing wrong with this at all! In fact, the most growth–fun and satisfying–you will experience in life is  when you continuously expand your boundaries. This is where increased confidence will develop. The more you try new things and accomplish what you set out to do, the more confident you will become. It is pretty amazing and awarding once you start on this journey of self-growth.
    The second realization is something equally important and one that I was guilty 
of for years. Appreciate YOURSELF. For years, I neglected to pay attention and appreciate everything that I had accomplished so far. Everything you do must be appreciated–whether big or small–because everything you do helps you clarify your likes and dislikes. Some things you will want more of and some, you will realize that once tried, there is no reason to repeat again. Every experience allows you to make better decisions that will align with the NEW YOU and what you are moving towards.

Start Loving Life now…
    Life is about progress. Life does not stand still.  Life only seems to stand still when you keep doing the same things over and over again. Don’t feel bad for consistently wanting to grow and evolve.  That is what a fun, amazing life is about. Expand your boundaries and life will expand with you, allowing new and great experiences to come your way. Appreciate everything you have experienced in life so far. Give credit where credit is due. Every experience has created the person you are today. Don’t allow a bad experience to consume you; instead, appreciate the bad experience as a clarifying moment. Once you discover the value in appreciating yourself, you will see how life changes in the craziest ways and crazy GOOD things will start to happen for you.
    What steps can you take today to move your life forward?  
    What things from your past and present can you appreciate for allowing you to be the person you are today? 

 

Pure Co Natural Spa

 

    This past New Year’s has marked the grand opening of Pure Co. Natural Spa in Huntington, New York.  Owner, Elaine Xie always had aspirations of opening her own spa.  After obtaining her certification in Reflexology, she trained in China for over ten years where she perfected her technique.  It was then that she decided to open her own spa here in New York. This past January, her dream came true as she celebrated her grand-opening.  
    Pure Co. Natural Spa is not your typical spa.  Upon entering, any guest will feel the serene, inviting atmosphere. Decorated in earth undertones, the waiting room—filled with warm lighting, comfortable seating, and bamboo plants—along with the friendly, inviting staff, allows any guest to become relaxed before their services even commence.  The accommodating staff strives to help each guest feel right at home and achieve ultimate relaxation during their visit.    
    They offer a variety of spa services. From foot and body massages, like deep tissue or hot stone to innovative skin care treatments like; cupping and bubble cleaning facial treatments.  Bubble cleaning facial treatment consists of a machine that cures blackheads and removes deep skin dirt. In addition to this service, Cupping is another innovative unique treatment that is offered at Pure Co. Natural Spa. Cupping is an ancient form of alternative medicine, in which a therapist puts special cups on the skin creating a suction.  The benefits of this technique is to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being; another form of deep-tissue massage.  
    At Pure Co. Natural Spa they offer a variety of services and strive to provide the ultimate experience for each guest that visits.  Elaine prides herself in the spa she has created and the services that she offers. They are open seven days a week, location at 499 East Jericho Turnpike, in Huntington Station, New York.  Call today for details on all their spa packages and additional services they offer.

499 East Jericho Tpke., Huntington Station (One Block West Of Depot Rd.) 
631-479-9719      Open 7 Days: 10am – 8:30pm

 

City Guide in Milan


Yvonne Bonasera holds a Bachelors 
degree in International Business from LIU and JCU in Rome, Italy. In addition to being the Director of Operations at LICC, she is a travel consultant/blogger and teaches Italian. Yvonne has visite­­­d over 30 countries across 5 continents. She can be reached at ymbtravel.com.
    Milan isn’t what most people think of when imagining “Old World” Italy. Offering a blend of style and luxury with subtle hints of tradition, it’s modern, edgy, and chic. Milan is the center of commerce, banking, and design; Italians flock here ­­for work.
    For tourists, Milan is the quickest route to Italy. The city is perfectly situated for day trips to Venice, Isola Bella, Lake Como, Bergamo, and Florence from Centrale station. Getting around is simple by foot or public transportation- which is reliable, affordable and safe. A day pass grants access to the buses, trams and subways that serve most of the city.
    The Sicilian cafe, Lu Bar serves the city’s best cappuccino in a quaint glass atrium. Have an aperitivo at Dry Milano or one of the posh rooftop restaurants such as Palazzo Matteotti or Ceresio 
7 for stunning views of Milan. Head to La Chiesetta, a unique former church turned bar or reserve one of only eight tables at Piccola Cucina. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in authentic, flavorful cuisine. 
    After window shopping some of the world’s most elaborate displays on Via Montenapole-one, try one of the premiere designer restaurants such as Emporio Armani Caffè. Although it’s dubbed a fashion capital, fashionistas aren’t the only ones who get to appreciate the city’s decadence. The glass roof and vaulted arcades of the world’s oldest mall, Galleria Vittorio, date back to 1861. People watch in the Piazza del Duomo and admire the gothic architecture of the breathtaking 1386 cathedral. After all, it took nearly 6 centuries to complete. 
    Milan isn't all glitz and glam, it’s also filled with culture. Explore the Castello Sforzesco before a world-class performance at La Scala, the famous opera house. Arcimboldi Theatre offers opera as well as ballet and modern dance. Schedule a viewing of Il Cenacolo (The Last Supper), the mural tucked away in an old church painted by da Vinci himself. For contemporary art, check out Fondazione Prada. 
    Visit the canals of Navigli, 
a neighborhood known for the artsy bars where locals fill the streets of Colonne di San Lorenzo. Make reservations at Quei Due for outstanding, traditional Neapolitan, brick oven pizza. Finally, escape the hustle and bustle at QC Terme for a day of relaxation at the Roman style thermal baths. 
    Though often overlooked, Milan is a true masterpiece where history, art, fashion and gastronomy come together.

 

2019 Bag Trends

Rachael Severino is a school senior at Sachem North High School in Sachem School District. This aspiring writer has a knack for the written word. She has penned short stories, poetry and is developing an impressive body of work. 

    With Fashion Week having just passed, the industry has unveiled the purses that will dominate stores for 2019. As winter begins to fizzle out, the last of the cold month handbags are being released before spring bags make an appearance. 
    Seen both on and off the runway is the eccentric, “Chanel Double Bag.” Models and fashion bloggers have accessorized themselves with two Chanel cross body bags. This is a more high-end look, and, despite having been seen before from Gucci and Coach, fashion reporters are raving over this trend. Chanel clearly brought a different kind of magic to make this trend stand out as much as it has. 
    Fanny packs came back several seasons ago, but now luxury brands are putting their own spin on this ‘90s craze. Gucci has had the most success with this revival, monograming their gold double-G onto quilted leather or velvet. This bag in particular has taken over the street and alternative scene. 
    Since 2016, mini bags have become a fashion favorite. Petite purses are perfect for fun nights out, fitting just lip balm or lip stick, some money, ID, and a phone. These are also a playful statement piece to spice up any outfit. Icons like Gigi Hadid have helped boost this trend, toting around dainty wristlets and teddy bear clutches. 
    There are also “super mini” handbags, that can hardly fit a lipstick. These are meant to act as solely statement pieces, rather than functional items and the runway has helped popularize them. 
    In the same vein as the mini purses, are the “inspired” duffle-bag. This bag is being revamped with an elegant and effortless spin, shrunk down and redesigned by major labels like Dior and Calvin Klein. This cylindrical bag is perfect for a day out, rather than its predecessor boxy body meant for a weekend get-away.
    Keeping on brand, mini-backpacks are still beloved. This long-lasting trend has been popular across various fashion styles. Most venders put out some form of a mini-backpack, as to cater to all shoppers. The Kanken Mini is well loved by art students; Gucci and Michael Kors petite backpacks are popular among models and trendy skaters. The mini-backpack has a long reign, one that will likely continue long past 2019.   
    A kitschy, more high-end bag is the Simon Miller Bonsai bag. With a simple cylindrical body with circular handles attached to the top, this bag comes in every color and various materials. This bucket bag has a clean and minimalist vibe. 
    All these bags will be making an appearance in leopard print, a pattern that has made a more delicate come back in recent months. A leopard bag with an all-black outfit is something you can expect to see, often. 
    2019 has a wide array of reimagined handbags, done up with designer spins and modern crazes. Venders like Forever 21 and H&M are producing less expensive options so that students and light-spenders can keep on trend.