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Holiday Lights: Girl Scouts of Suffolk County

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webpublisherpro
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Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, a business and development consulting firm for local businesses and not-for-profit organizations. She has more than 20 years of experience in writing, from business writing to journalism to creative writing. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion, travel, and other lifestyle topics.
    Several years ago, our family added a new holiday tradition, a visit to the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County’s annual Holiday Light Show. Starting with some warm cocoa (and a coffee for me), we set out for the experience with holiday music playing in the car and lots of laughter among my happy troupe. It was better than we could have expected. In 2016, GSSC moved the show to a new location. In the spirit of full disclosure, went with a touch of trepidation toward Smith Point County Park. We love the beach, but change can be difficult. We all kept an open mind. The new light show was fantastic! The traffic moved smoothly through the wondrous displays, and we could see the water on the cold winter’s eve. We were sold on the new venue for this annual event.
    I was delighted to learn that Girl Scouts of Suffolk County & Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone are together presenting Suffolk’s Own 14th Annual Holiday Light Show this year. The show returns to Smith Point County Park (located at 1 William Floyd Parkway, Shirley, NY) from December 1st to 30th (though they are closed on December 24th and 25th). The show opens at 5pm each day, though closing times vary, so check the website for more info. At $20 per car, it’s a really good value for a family activity. Please note, they accept credit card only and there are no pre-sales.
    Our children are not quite so small any longer. But, a visit to the light show is still something we eagerly look forward to. Driving through the trail of dazzling light displays and holiday vignettes prompts looks of awe and smiles on everyone’s faces. It makes the visit worthwhile. It also makes us feel great to know we are supporting the efforts of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County as proceeds from the Holiday Light Show benefits programs for girls. 
    If you are looking for a special activity to do as a family – that won’t break the bank – I recommend a visit to Smith Point County Park. Come wind through the south shore beach’s campgrounds, in the comfort of your car, to view beautiful light displays that are sure to warm your heart. Be inspired by the best parts of this wonderful season. If you visited in year’s past at the old location, you can make a game of looking for your old favorites and enjoy the new displays throughout the train.
    Funds raised from the show go directly to benefit Girl Scouts’ programs and services. There are programs for troops, scholarships for girls with financial need to attend summer camp, partnerships with school districts in STEM and Arts education, learning opportunities with other agencies, and programs for children and families in underserved communities.  
Girl Scouts of Suffolk County is the largest youth-serving agency on Long Island. It serves more than 40,000 girls between the ages of 5 and 17, with the dedicated support of more than 7,000 volunteers. For more information on the Holiday Light Show or Girl Scouts, visit www.holidaylightshow.org or www.gssc.us or call (631) 543-6622. 
    Wishing you and yours good health and much happiness this holiday season and all though the year ahead.

 

Happy Holiday Times In New York City

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webpublisherpro
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Kathy Horowitz facilitates a monthly women’s writer’s group at the Life Center in Huntington.  Her work has appeared in The Long Islander, Long Island Woman, Calyx, Blue Unicorn, and Seventh Quarry. Kathy offers freelance writing, editing, and proofreading services (kahorowitz@gmail.com) www.kathyhorowitz.com.  

There’s no time as exciting as the holidays in the city.  Here’s a list that will please both families and adults.

• Big Apple Circus (www.BigAppleCircus.com). Celebrating its 40th season, watch world record-holding high wire artiest Nik Wallenda, Grandma the Clown, and The Flying Tunizianis trapeze artists at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park.  Seats are no more than 50 feet from the performers.  Circus of the Senses offers special enhanced experiences for audiences with autism, visual and auditory challenges.  Through January 7, 2018.

• For theater buffs:  In & Of Itself (www.InanOfItselfshow.com) and Cruel Intentions, The Musical (www.CruelMusical.com).  In & Of Itself (Union Square’s Daryl Roth Theatre) is the talented work of creator and star Derek DelGaudio who is a magician, a raconteur, a conceptual artist and mind reader.  A mysterious story is deciphered and the illusion of one’s own identity is revealed.  Cruel Intentions pulls you into the manipulative world of Manhattan’s most dangerous liaison, Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil, stepsiblings.  Seduced by revenge and fueled by passion, these two find themselves entangled in a web of secrets, temptation, and love.  13+ show; those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Union Square Holiday Market (14th Street & Union Square W).  This European-style outdoor winter market has over 150 local and national vendors selling handcrafted gifts and artwork.  Enjoy new sections like Little Brooklyn and Urbanspace Provisions, a Warming Station and Lounge, a Kid’s Arts Studio, live music and more. Through December 24th.  At Winter Village at Bryant Park (41 W. 40th Street bet. 5th & 6th) not only is there free ice skating (bring your own, rent for $20), but also over 150 holiday shops, new kiosks, eateries, and a gorgeous Christmas tree.  Through January 2, 2018. 

• NYC Holiday Lights Motorcoach Sightseeing Tour (1-866-977-6312) (www.nyctrip.com).  On this 3 ½-4-hour guided and narrated tour, you’ll hear stories about the rich history, tradition and pageantry of some of the finest New York holiday displays.  The tour takes place in a climate controlled luxury motor coach with frequent stops to get out and view the displays up close.  You’ll see sights like Central Park’s Holiday Markets, the trees at Lincoln and Rockefeller Centers, the world’s largest Menorah, Times Square, the 5th Avenue window displays of Bloomingdales, Saks, Lord & Taylor, Macy’s and more.  Adult price from $55.00; same for children. Daily at 6:30pm through December 30th.

Remember to look for the red, green, and white lights of the majestic Empire State Building during the festivities.  Happy Holidays to you and your families!

 

Dishin’ With Denise… The Day After Leftovers

By
webpublisherpro
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Denise Gianatasio is a Northport 
Village resident and freelance writer. She 
is a licenced agent at Signature Premier 
Properties, Gold 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.

I hope your Thanksgiving celebration is a truly great one and that you’re lucky enough to have leftovers in your fridge from the holiday feast. Get creative with all those wrapped up leftovers and turn them into a delicious leftover pot pie. Use your turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, pea casserole roasted carrots, gravy and you will be amazed at how wonderful and easy the day after can be. Blessings beyond and leftover!

1 box Pillsbury of 2 prepared pie crusts, uncooked
1 ½ cups leftover turkey chopped in pieces
1 cup left over stuffing
2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
½ cup of your leftover carrots sliced
1 cup sliced mushrooms chopped 
3 stalks celery diced
1 Vidalia onion diced
1 cup of your leftover pea casserole
1 cup leftover gravy
¼ cup olive oil

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a pot add onion, celery and mushrooms and cook on medium heat until translucent. Remove from heat and mix turkey pieces with diced carrots and pea casserole (or peas that have been mixed with ½ can of cream of mushroom soup. Place 1 of your pie crusts into a pie pan to fit. Add to your bottom of pie your mashed potatoes and spread out evenly. Top with a thin layer of stuffing mixture. Add the turkey, sautéed onion, celery, mushrooms, carrots and pea mixture, pour gravy over entire top. Lay the other crust over top of pie~ pinching all edges around till sealed tight. Can rub top with a bit of melted butter to get a nice golden crust. Place pie on cookie sheet and bake for 45 minutes. Feel free to improvise on vegetables according to your collection of leftovers. Enjoy the day after! Xo Denise 

 

Barre Fitness

By
webpublisherpro
-

Yvonne Bonasera holds a Bachelors degree in International Business from LIU and JCU in Rome, Italy. She is a travel 
consultant, blogger and teaches
Italian, and has visited over 26
countries across 5 continents. Yvonne can be reached at ymbtravel@gmail.com.

Curious​ ​about​ ​"​ ​Barre"​ ​classes​ ​that​ ​have​ ​become​ ​one​ ​of​ ​the​ ​newest​ ​trends​ ​to​ ​hit​ ​the​ ​fitness world?​ ​Barre​ ​is​ ​one​ ​of​ ​the​ ​most​ ​popular​ ​and​ ​effective​ ​workouts,​ ​combining​ ​ballet,​ ​Pilates​ ​and yoga,​ ​with​ ​no​ ​dance​ ​experience​ ​required!

Ballet​ ​Barre,​ ​or​ ​simply​ ​Barre​ ​workouts​ ​tackle​ ​the​ ​full​ ​body,​ ​targeting​ ​small​ ​muscle​ ​groups typically​ ​ranging​ ​from​ ​small,​ ​isolated​ ​muscle​ ​movements​ ​to​ ​those​ ​requiring​ ​large​ ​range​ ​of motion.​ ​Often,​ ​the​ ​classes​ ​are​ ​choreographed​ ​to​ ​music;​ ​unlike​ ​a​ ​dance​ ​class,​ ​there's​ ​no need​ ​to​ ​learn​ ​or​ ​memorize​ ​a​ ​"routine,"​ ​but​ ​rather​ ​use​ ​the​ ​beat​ ​of​ ​the​ ​music​ ​to​ ​help​ ​count​ ​reps and​ ​stay​ ​on​ ​tempo.  

Barre​ ​work​ ​is​ ​that​ ​done​ ​on​ ​the​ ​horizontal,​ ​ballet​ ​barre,​ ​and​ ​is​ ​often​ ​used​ ​simply​ ​to​ ​support the​ ​body​ ​while​ ​targeting​ ​specific​ ​areas.​ ​The​ ​barre​ ​work​ ​may​ ​include​ ​leg​ ​lifts,​ ​squats​ ​(or pliés),​ ​or​ ​stretching.​ ​Additionally,​ ​many​ ​studios​ ​incorporate​ ​use​ ​of​ ​​ ​floor​ ​mats,​ ​light​ ​weights, resistance​ ​bands​ ​and​ ​other​ ​equipment​ ​to​ ​add​ ​variety​ ​into​ ​each​ ​session.

One​ ​of​ ​the​ ​greatest​ ​benefits​ ​of​ ​this​ ​form​ ​of​ ​workout​ ​is​ ​suitable​ ​for​ ​all​ ​ages​ ​and​ ​skill​ ​levels because​ ​of​ ​the​ ​ability​ ​to​ ​easily​ ​modify​ ​movements.​ ​The​ ​repetition​ ​allows​ ​for​ ​participants​ ​to anticipate​ ​what's​ ​to​ ​come,​ ​and​ ​to​ ​power​ ​through​ ​the​ ​sets,​ ​often​ ​broken​ ​up​ ​by​ ​upper​ ​body, lower​ ​body​ ​and​ ​core.

Some​ ​studios​ ​offer​ ​classes​ ​exclusively​ ​designed​ ​for​ ​those​ ​wishing​ ​to​ ​engage​ ​in​ ​lower​ ​impact cardio​ ​and​ ​reduce​ ​the​ ​amount​ ​of​ ​stress​ ​put​ ​on​ ​joints​ ​and​ ​muscles.​ ​Instructors​ ​teach​ ​at​ ​a slower​ ​pace​ ​to​ ​focus​ ​on​ ​refining​ ​form.

There​ ​are​ ​several​ ​varieties​ ​and​ ​styles​ ​of​ ​barre​ ​classes,​ ​from​ ​those​ ​offered​ ​in​ ​gym memberships,​ ​dance​ ​studios,​ ​to​ ​those​ ​in​ ​boutique​ ​style​ ​studios.

Barre​ ​is​ ​so​ ​versatile-​ ​it​ ​can​ ​be​ ​done​ ​anywhere!​ ​For​ ​an​ ​at​ ​home​ ​option,​ ​use​ ​the​ ​back​ ​of​ ​a sturdy​ ​chair​ ​in​ ​lieu​ ​of​ ​a​ ​barre!​ ​There​ ​are​ ​many ​​routines​ ​offered​ ​online​ ​or​ ​on demand​ ​TV.​  ​All​ ​can​ ​help​ ​gain​ ​flexibility,​ ​improve​ ​posture,​ ​strengthen​ ​muscles,​ ​trim​ ​and​ ​tone the​ ​body,​ ​while​ ​providing​ ​a​ ​great​ ​cardio​ ​workout. 

While​ ​there​ ​are​ ​fundamental​ ​elements​ ​of​ ​ballet​ ​woven​ ​throughout​ ​the​ ​class,​ ​there​ ​is​ ​no​ ​need to​ ​have​ ​ever​ ​taken​ ​a​ ​ballet​ ​class!​ ​For​ ​those​ ​with​ ​dance​ ​backgrounds,​ ​it's​ ​a​ ​fun,​ ​nostalgic, way​ ​to​ ​incorporate​ ​dance​ ​into​ ​your​ ​life.​ ​For​ ​the​ ​rest​ ​of​ ​us,​ ​feeling​ ​like​ ​a​ ​ballerina​ ​for​ ​an​ ​hour or​ ​so​ ​is​ ​just​ ​as​ ​much​ ​a​ ​thrill!​ ​​ ​Barre​ ​is​ ​one​ ​of​ ​the​ ​low​ ​injury​ ​risk​ ​forms​ ​of​ ​exercise​ ​out​ ​there, even​ ​deemed​ ​suitable​ ​for​ ​pregnant​ ​women!​ ​However,​ ​as​ ​always,​ ​please​ ​speak​ ​with​ ​your physician​ ​before​ ​beginning​ ​any​ ​fitness​ ​or​ ​workout​ ​regimens. 

 

Holiday Gift Giving Guide 2017

By
webpublisherpro
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Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, a business and 
development consulting firm for local businesses and not-for-profit organizations. She has more than 20 years of experience in writing, from business writing to journalism to creative writing. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion trends and styles.

    It’s the most wonderful time of the year…or so the song goes. If you are one of the many who are agonizing over what to get all those special people on your gift list, you may be feeling more stress than at other times of the year. Fear not, there are many great gift options – at every price point. 
    Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanza the three major winter holidays, are all reasonably close this year. Having looked through websites, ads, magazines, catalogues (full disclosure I still LOVE catalogues) commercials and more, there is a lot out there from which to choose. 
    For the smallest recipients, LeapFrog’s Picnic Basket will both teach and entertain your baby or toddler. Pidoko Kids Pound & Tap Bench with Pull Out Xylophone will bring out the early musician in your baby. Fisher Price has a new robot, Think & Learn. Teach N Tag Movi, that is considered a top choice. Tickle Me Elmo is making a big comeback guaranteed to bring about big giggles. Paw Patrol’s Sea Patroller will be a big hit for fans of the show, as will Coco’s Guitar from the Disney Pixar film hitting theatres on Thanksgiving.  The biggest comeback award goes to Teddy Ruxpin, a toy that sent moms and dads into a tailspin in an effort to find one before the holidays.  
    School-aged children will be delighted to receive a package of Fingerlings Glitter Monkeys this holiday season. Perhaps one of the hottest items of the year, you can buy a single monkey or packages of varying sizes. Project MC2 has several new science experiment kits, all with some fashion flair, to pique the interest of girls everywhere into STEM based activities. Your pet lovers will have a blast with either the Little Live Pets Cuddles My Dream Kitten or Roarin’ Tyler the Playful Tiger, both of which are on top holiday lists everywhere. Hatchimals, which made their grand entrance for Christmas in 2016, are back with Hatchimals Surprise. Lets all hope there is more stock available this time around! Squishies are still quite popular (I admit that this one escapes me, but they are a good add-on if you need something extra). Back in the realm of retro comebacks, my favorite toy is back on the market…Barbie’s Dreamhouse is back and the whole house has been renovated. Add a doll or two and playtime will be underway! Laser X Two Player Laser Tag Gaming System is another hot item to consider. If music is  their thing, Sound Moovz music and motion device, a Bluetooth enables wristband, is a great choice. Star Wars-themed anything will be a big hit with the new installment in the franchise coming out mid-December. Running close behind are the toys from DC Comics. From Legos to figures and games, there is a great deal from which to choose.
    For adolescents, there are a lot of choices out there too. Is he a gamer? Call of Duty WWII for either Xbox or PlayStation is the hot choice. Is there a Star Wars fan on your list? Consider an app controlled android of either R2D2 or BB-8. Is there a future spa devotee in your midst? You simply cannot go wrong with a basket of products from Lush offering bath bombs, lotions, masques, and other skin care products. You can make a gift basket or purchase a pre-packaged gift set. Tech speaks to both teen guys and girls…ear buds, phone cases, and other accessories (think pop-sockets) will all be very well received. 
    Gift baskets are a great idea, theme a basket for your gift-getter then go for it.  It can be themed with books, junk food, sports, spa, sweets, puzzles, gift cards, teddy bears and much more. The only limit is your imagination. You can create something for every budget.
    Have a great guy for whom you need to shop? Think of his hobbies and likes. That can give you a place to start. If he works really hard, consider a plush bathrobe. If he’s a golfer, create a basket of golfing accessories…a little bit of everything he will need on the course. If he’s a watch hound, consider a personalized case to hold his favorite watches. Does he love toys? Drones are more popular than ever.  A bottle of his favorite drink with two glasses can be the perfect gift set too. If he’s truly hard to shop for, consider a certificate to try an activity he’s talked about. 
    Remember the lovely lady on your list. This is a chance to show her how special she is. She may be the one regularly doing most of the shopping, so consider a spurge item – an item which she wouldn’t normally treat herself.  Consider a beautiful purse, a gift card to buy shoes, or a fabulous scarf or shawl. If she doesn’t get much time to unwind, perhaps she would enjoy a night at a local theatre, a paint night to show her creative side, or a spa day with a friend. If she is a lover of flowers, she might enjoy a subscription to the Flower of the Month Club. There are clubs for all tastes, so if that doesn’t speak to her, consider the Book, Chocolate, Disney, or Ipsy box of the month. 
    Don’t forget the family quadrupeds too. Whether you choose catnip or cat dancers, bones or biscuits, you will be a hero for remembering a gift for the furbabies in the house. 
    Wishing you happy shopping adventures! Whether online, in the mall, at boutiques or winter fairs, enjoy the process, not just the one day with the family or friends. You will give yourself the best gift of all – a season full of happy memories.

 

 

Hosting, Toasting, And Decorating Fixes For The Holidays

By
webpublisherpro
-

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

    We all know that entertaining at home is really a holiday gift that should be shared with friends and family, and the best hosts are the ones who are relaxed (or seem so) and enjoying themselves. How do they do it? What holiday magic have they learned that many of us have not yet mastered? I think we all know it’s not magic, but good planning and preparation (easy for me to say). The good news is we still have time on our side, so let’s use it wisely:
    Start by doing a quick clean up.  Get rid of whatever is worn, torn, or broken and begin your “to-do” lists for gift giving and home decorating.  Make them realistic – and affordable – and evaluate the way you’ve done things in the past. Maybe it’s time to change.
­­
Gift giving – what if you….
• Had a family lottery to eliminate so many presents
• Purchased gift cards
• Shopped online
• Just exchanged greeting cards with personal messages
• Or, if you’re in the Fortune 500 category, hire a personal shopper and send them off to complete your list.
• If gift giving is part of your celebration, be sure you’ve wrapped a few extra presents so when unexpected guests turn up, no one will feel left out.
• What about the kids? Have you planned anything special for them to keep them happy and occupied?

Now – your home
• Don’t plan a renovation project too close to the holidays.
• A fresh coat of paint can transform a room easily (and try a new color that works)
• Use holiday decorations as seasonal additions to your home.
• More may not be better. Proper showcasing can make inexpensive objects look grand and beautiful. Try to group holiday accessories as you might any collectible. For example, your existing bookshelves may be the perfect place to display a whole Christmas village or Chanukah menorah collection rather than adding an additional table taking up needed space.  
• Make your staircase a focal point with decorative garlands and plants (if the steps are wide enough).  
• Fireplaces can look wonderful when dressed for the season with mantle covers, candles and Christmas stockings or dreidels and Chanukah cards.  
• Place your tree or giant dreidel in an area for greatest enjoyment, leaving enough space for presents and people opening them. Think about rearranging the furniture just a bit for maximum use and affect.  
• Do your decorations overwhelm your guests? Is there still room for comfortable seating or should you move things around in advance to accommodate everyone?
• If guests are staying over, make sure their quarters are prepared and user friendly (empty drawers and closet space, clean towels, fresh bed linens). Do you want to decorate that area with holiday décor? 
• Is your coat closet empty?  Are there extra hangers in it? 
• Do candle holders have candles?
• Check out the powder room.  Add fresh scents, decorative paper hand towels, and a candle or two.
    And finally, find a wine you love to serve, open a bottle now, pour a glass, make your lists and remember what the holidays are meant to be. Enjoy the anticipation of celebrating traditions with family and friends – and when the day comes, if you’ve prepared, it will become a happy memory for the future. Best wishes from everyone at Natalie Weinstein Design Associates & Uniquely Natalie!
    P.S. – For immediate furniture and accessory delivery, visit Uniquely Natalie our quality consignment shop for beautiful additions to your home affordably.

 

Preparing For The College Interview

By
webpublisherpro
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Tony Moschella spent 32 years as a School Psychologist, and started
University College Advisors to polish student profiles through college interest and major assessment, essay and
interview prep, college list building,
financial aid review and college admissions guidance. Cell: 516-443-5192. 
www.UniversityCollegeAdvisors.com  
UniversityCollegeAdvisors@gmail.com

    Although not a uniform requirement within the admissions process, the college interview offers a prime opportunity to enhance an applicant’s overall profile. The college interview allows both student and school to learn additional details about each other. For students debating whether or not to sit for an optional college interview, the swift answer is do sit!
    Part and parcel to preparing for the interview is to complete a thorough evaluation of the merits of a particular college in relation to one's preferences. This vital step elevates the conversation and enhances one's enthusiasm for participating in the interview. Recognizing personal interests, goals and commitment to a particular school helps to reinforce a link between student and college. While interviews are often guided Q & A sessions that do not try to (intentionally) corner students or pin them down on esoteric topics, it is prudent to anticipate the type of questions typically included (sample list follows). Scripted responses sound artificial and limit the authenticity of one's answers. However, it is good to prepare with concise and cogent answers to the customary questions as a means of presenting your best self. 
    With each successive interview that a student takes, there is a sense of accomplishment that one has fulfilled an important step in their quest to gain admission to a preferred college. Furthermore, the interview acts as a reference guide in drawing conclusions and impressions about the college itself. As a matter of course, it is good to keep a journal of college visits and to include the takeaways gathered from the interview experience. Once applications have been submitted and students await admissions decisions, it is often the positive impressions gained from experiences like the college interview that reveal a student's top priority school.

Sample College Interview Questions:
  1. Why do you want to attend our college?
  2. What can you contribute to our campus community?
  3. What do you want to get out of your college experience?
  4. What courses have you enjoyed most?
  5. Are your grades an accurate reflection of your potential?
  6. Which of your activities is most rewarding and why?
  7. What has been your biggest achievement/accomplishment? Why?
  8. How did you spend last summer?
  9. How would you describe yourself to someone who did not know you?
10. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
11. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
12. What do you want to do after you graduate from college? Ten years from now?
13. What's the most difficult situation you've faced?
14. If you could change one thing about your high school, what would it be?
15. How do you define “success”?
16. Who do you count as your role model(s)?
17. What about you is unique?
18. What is the best book you have read? Why?
19. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
20. If you are accepted into our school, what activities would you like to participate in?

 

A Trip To The Past: Philadelphia and Valley Forge, Pennsylvania

By
webpublisherpro
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Kathy Horowitz facilitates a monthly women’s writer’s group at the Life Center in Huntington.  Her work has appeared in The Long Islander, Long Island Woman, Calyx, Blue Unicorn, and Seventh Quarry. Kathy offers freelance writing, editing, and proofreading services (kahorowitz@gmail.com) www.kathyhorowitz.com.  

I haven’t been to Philadelphia in decades and Valley Forge is still on my bucket list. Visiting there is like taking a trip back into history. Ben Franklin said, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” Let’s see what we can learn.

Independence Hall, Philadelphia.  Pick up free-time tickets at the Visitor Center to tour Independence Hall (distributed daily from 8:30am on).  You’ll see the Liberty Bell and can visit nearby sights such as Congress Hall, First Bank of the U.S., the Free Quaker Meeting House, the National Liberty Museum, the Franklin and Betsy Ross Houses. Maps are available for walking tours. Before arriving, visit www.PHLvisitorcenter.com for tickets to purchase to over 100 area attractions.

Parkway/Museum District.  Located along the Schuylkill River, the district is home to over 30 works of public art featuring masterpieces by three generations of Calders, including the Swann Memorial Fountain, William Penn on top of City Hall, and the Shakespeare Memorial, as well as my favorite, Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker. At the Philadelphia Museum of Art (www.philamuseum.org) visitors are encouraged to discover their imagination through study and play. The famous Rocky Statue is also in the museum’s vicinity. At The Franklin Institute (www.fi.edu) explore the fun side of science through 11 hands-on exhibits.

At The Philadelphia Zoo (www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org/winter) you can walk among the wild as big cats, great apes and more roam Zoo360 as well as visit the Outback Outpost and the new Wings of Asia.

Valley Forge Park (www.meet.valleyforge.org), 18 miles from Philadelphia, is a place for history buffs and the young to learn about our nation’s history.  The site of the 1777-78 Continental Army’s winter encampment remains today as a testimony to their determination and focus.  The March-In of the Continental Army takes place in December. Discover more sites at www.PatriotTrails.com.  Valley Forge was the site of the first public birthday party for George Washington and is celebrated yearly on February 19.  Washington’s Birthday Party includes activities such as games and crafts, a chance for children to join the Continental Army, and the ceremonial cake cutting. The Park is also popular for outdoor recreation with nearly 30 miles of trails, waterways filled with trout and catfish, and scenic picnic areas.

A final Franklin quote, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”  Happy learning!

 

A Life’s Mission

By
webpublisherpro
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   The founder of Barbara’s Hair Studio, Barbara Vivolo, understands what’s it’s like to face breast cancer and deal with its physical and emotional wrath. She’s been there.
     Barbara’s mother and Aunt both battled from breast cancer. As a trained cosmetologist since 1984, Barbara started styling wigs for them in the hopes of easing the trauma they felt due to hair loss from chemotherapy treatment.
     A life’s mission was born. Barbara became passionate about helping all women look and feel better as they dealt with cancer and other illnesses that caused hair loss. She became an expert in hair replacement options.
     In 2006, Barbara herself was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was only 40 years old and had three young children at home. Barbara opted to undergo a double mastectomy and full breast reconstruction surgery.
     Her health improved, but her commitment to helping cancer patients and other women suffering from hair loss remained. She’s since helped countless women look good and feel better with the help of wigs and toppers with a fit, color and style that is created especially for them.
     Barbara will measure and fit your wig so it looks like your natural hair, whether you have thinning hair or are experiencing complete hair loss. She will style the wig so it shows off your own personal style or shows off a new look you’ve been wanting to try. From a free initial consultation to handing over your custom wig or topper, Barbara will walk you through the entire process on your journey to Hair Recovery.
    Barbara is a certified health and wellness coach, which enables her to assist clients suffering from the psychological transition of hair loss due to chemotherapy, alopecia areata or hormonal changes. She has received ongoing training as a stylist.
    As a Wig stylist she is trained and certified as a master Wig fitter & Stylist, which includes Cutting, Styling and custom alterations on all Wigs. 
Barbara was trained by Jon Renau a California based manufacturing Wig company. 
     Barbara has been working with New York lawmakers to pass a bill requiring health insurance companies cover the cost of wigs and toppers during cancer treatment. She’s an advocate for women who might otherwise struggle to pay for the cost of cranial prosthesis, and believes a wig is no different than a prosthetic leg or arm.
     Barbara’s Hair Studio is happy to assist clients from Long Island, New York, including Hauppauge, Commack, Kings Park, Northport, Dix Hills, East Northport, Smithtown, Huntington, Greenlawn, Elwood and all of Suffolk County and Nassau County by appointment only. 
     As Barbara says, losing your hair is a sign of healing. She will help you along that journey with a focus on health, hair, healing and happiness.
    Text, Call, or Email her today she will ease the transition and hold your hand through the process.

Barbara's Hair Studio, 586 Veterans Memorial Highway #1c Suite 15, 631-672-4855 (Inside Sola Salon)
www.barbarashairstudio.com, barbarashairstudio@gmail.com

 

Classic Fashion Fun

By
webpublisherpro
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Yvonne Bonasera holds a 
Bachelors degree in International Business from LIU and JCU in Rome, Italy. She is a travel consultant, blogger and teaches Italian, and has visited over 26 countries across 5 continents. Yvonne can be reached at ymbtravel@gmail.com.
    Long​ ​Island's​ ​endless​ ​summer​ ​this​ ​year​ ​is​ ​making​ ​it​ ​hard​ ​to​ ​think​ ​about​ ​the​ ​upcoming holidays​ ​and​ ​colder​ ​weather,​ ​but​ ​it​ ​will​ ​be​ ​here​ ​before​ ​you​ ​know​ ​it,​ ​so​ ​let's​ ​talk​ ​fall​ ​trends! 
    It's​ ​safe​ ​to​ ​say​ ​we​ ​all​ ​look​ ​forward​ ​to​ ​fall​ ​fashion-​ ​it's​ ​comfy,​ ​cozy​ ​and​ ​we​ ​finally​ ​break​ ​into boot​ ​season. 
    Wraps,​ ​shawls​ ​and​ ​scarves… the​ ​go-to​ ​fall​ ​accessory!​ ​To​ ​make​ ​an​ ​outfit​ ​come​ ​together​ ​with​ ​ease​ ​and​ ​to​ ​warm​ ​those​ ​chilly fall​ ​mornings;​ ​add​ ​a​ ​patterned​ ​scarf​ ​or​ ​wrap​ ​on​ ​a​ ​simple,​ ​monotone,​ ​outfit.​ ​Typically,​ ​we think​ ​of​ ​​ ​plaid​ ​this​ ​time​ ​of​ ​year,​ ​but​ ​pretty​ ​florals​ ​have​ ​made​ ​their​ ​way​ ​into​ ​the​ ​season’s preferred​ ​patterns​ ​for​ ​an​ ​added​ ​pop.  
    Ponchos,​ ​capes​ ​and​ ​vests…layering​ ​is​ ​the​ ​name​ ​of​ ​the​ ​game​ ​in​ ​the​ ​early​ ​part​ ​of​ ​the​ ​season.​ ​The​ ​never-out-of-style ponchos​ ​or​ ​capes​ ​are​ ​a​ ​chic​ ​alternative​ ​to​ ​a​ ​sweatshirt.​ ​Vests,​ ​long​ ​or​ ​short,​ ​faux​ ​fur​ ​or quilted,​ ​year​ ​after​ ​year​ ​vests​ ​will​ ​be​ ​a​ ​staple​ ​in​ ​your​ ​wardrobe.  
    Boots​ ​and​ ​booties…the​ ​long​ ​awaited​ ​footwear​ ​favorite​ ​resurfaces​ ​making​ ​fall​ ​one​ ​of​ ​the​ ​best​ ​times​ ​for​ ​fashion. Short​ ​booties​ ​with​ ​fringe​ ​or​ ​studs​ ​if​ ​you​ ​want​ ​to​ ​make​ ​a​ ​statement​ ​or​ ​stick​ ​with​ ​the​ ​classics- leather,​ ​suede,​ ​the​ ​possibilities​ ​are​ ​endless!​ ​They​ ​can​ ​be​ ​paired​ ​with​ ​pants,​ ​dresses​ ​or​ ​a skirt.​ ​Boots​ ​have​ ​become​ ​the​ ​versatile,​ ​timeless,​ ​accessory​ ​that​ ​can​ ​span​ ​across​ ​decades, so​ ​invest​ ​in​ ​a​ ​good​ ​pair​ ​for​ ​years​ ​of​ ​use.  
    Sweaters…from​ ​turtlenecks​ ​to​ ​tunics,​ ​sweater​ ​dresses,​ ​cropped​ ​or​ ​cardigans…​ ​there​ ​are​ ​so​ ​many choices​ ​when​ ​it​ ​comes​ ​to​ ​sweaters,​ ​you​ ​​almost ​wish​ ​the​ ​season​ ​would​ ​last​ ​longer. Oversized​ ​sweaters​ ​feel​ ​as​ ​though​ ​you're​ ​wrapped​ ​in​ ​your​ ​favorite​ ​blanket.​ ​Wear​ ​with leggings​ ​(ensuring​ ​they​ ​cover​ ​your​ ​backside)​ ​and​ ​you've​ ​mastered​ ​a​ ​cozy,​ ​effortless,​ ​look perfect​ ​for​ ​watching​ ​football,​ ​doing​ ​errands,​ ​or​ ​going​ ​out​ ​for​ ​lunch.  
     Outerwear…an​ ​outfit​ ​can​ ​really​ ​come​ ​together​ ​with​ ​the​ ​proper​ ​outerwear.​ ​Some​ ​jackets​ ​and​ ​coats​ ​are​ ​so stylish,​ ​you'll​ ​want​ ​to​ ​wear​ ​them​ ​inside​ ​as​ ​well.​ ​Take​ ​a​ ​trench​ ​or​ ​peacoat​ ​for​ ​example,​ ​they give​ ​an​ ​added​ ​level​ ​of​ ​polish​ ​to​ ​any​ ​look.​ ​Wool​ ​is​ ​great​ ​this​ ​time​ ​of​ ​year.​ ​Purchase​ ​a separate​ ​faux​ ​fur​ ​scarf​ ​for​ ​added​ ​detail​ ​and​ ​transform​ ​a​ ​basic​ ​coat​ ​into​ ​something spectacular!  
    Thanksgiving​ ​color​ ​palate​ ​theory…when​ ​dressing​ ​for​ ​fall,​ ​take​ ​inspiration​ ​from​ ​your​ ​holiday​ ​table.​ ​Cranberry,​ ​toasted cinnamon,​ ​burnt​ ​orange,​ ​deep,​ ​rich,​ ​tones​ ​that​ ​embody​ ​the​ ​spirit​ ​of​ ​the​ ​season.​ ​Olive​ ​green is​ ​one​ ​of​ ​the​ ​season's​ ​favorites!​ ​Browns,​ ​tans,​ ​nude​ ​can​ ​be​ ​used​ ​on​ ​nails,​ ​lip​ ​color​ ​or wardrobe​ ​choices.​ ​You​ ​can't​ ​go​ ​wrong​ ​with​ ​this​ ​theory​ ​in​ ​mind! 
    Confidence​ ​is​ ​key…don't​ ​just​ ​dress​ ​to​ ​impress​ ​or​ ​simply​ ​to​ ​stay​ ​current​ ​with​ ​trends.​ ​Dress​ ​to​ ​feel​ ​good​ ​about you, confident​ ​and​ ​radiant.​ ​Love​ ​what​ ​you're​ ​wearing​ ​and​ ​you’ll​ ​be​ ​dressed​ ​perfectly​ ​for​ ​any occasion.

 

Dishin’ With Denise… This Side of Thanksgiving

By
webpublisherpro
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Denise Gianatasio is a Northport 
Village resident and freelance writer. She 
is a licenced agent at Signature Premier 
Properties, Gold 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.

Fresh cranberry sauce~ perhaps the most colorful dish on the Thanksgiving table. It is fresh and simple to prepare. My favorite version is flavored with fresh orange juice and fresh orange zest. The combination of sweet and tart is superb, elevating this into an elegant and sought after side for your feast. If you’re used to opening a can for this ~ I promise you after tasting this you’ll never go back! Make it a couple of days ahead and refrigerate, then served warmed or chilled. The day after it is great on your turkey sandwich too! Cranberry sauce is traditionally served on Thanksgiving with turkey and stuffing but is often the understated  side with mashed potatoes and stuffing getting the starring roles on the table~ not anymore… this recipe will yield amazing results and accolades! Happy Thanksgiving! Time to reflect on all the blessings we are thankful for! Xo Denise

1 12 ounce bag of fresh whole cranberries
1 large fresh orange (for zest and juicing) you need a total of 1 cup liquid~use squeezed orange and add water or orange juice if needed
½ cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick

Zest the orange skin and squeeze all juice, remove any seeds. Add extra liquid if needed. Put all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer on medium heat with a cinnamon stick until the cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken, approximately 15-20 minutes. Cool. Sauce thickens when cooled. Can be served at room temperature or chilled. Thankfully easy!

 

Savory Eats: Thanksgiving 2017

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webpublisherpro
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Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a writer. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community working as a blogger and musician. She enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking and performing with her dad in their LI-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by e-mail at: joanna.adduci10@gmail.com.
    As the weather changes and the holidays approach, many families are looking for alternatives to long days spent in the kitchen, and tiring clean ups. If you’re not into spending the holidays at home, or just prefer not to do the cooking this year, consider dining out. This Thanksgiving, plenty of beloved local establishments are staying open to provide you with your beloved homemade turkey and sides. 
    Whether you’re looking for something upscale or comfortably casual, many neighborhood eateries are encouraging diners to eat out this Thanksgiving season. Mill Pond House in Centerport, H20 Seafood and Sushi, Cinque Terre Ristorante in Huntington Station, and Thyme in Roslyn are only some of the places worth checking out. 
    Mill Pond House, nestled on the water in Centerport, is offering a full Thanksgiving dinner for guests. Available as an a la carte menu for adults, and set children’s menu, Mill Pond House is the perfect place to indulge in a beautiful setting with friends and family. The menu includes raw bar options, caviar, starters, pastas, entrees, lobster, grilled prime meats and Chef’s homemade fixings. (Personally, I would order the Crispy Half Long Island Duck or Sesame Crusted Yellowfin Tuna.)
    Thyme in Roslyn is a great option for Nassau County diners. Their regular menu includes salads, starters, soups, burgers, entrees and sides. I personally prefer their Long Island Duck Breast with caramelized pear or Braised Short Rib Papardelle. This is an equally beautiful setting to celebrate a cherished holiday with family and friends, and offers diners a diverse mix of dinner selections. 
    Cinque Terre Ristorante in Huntington Station is serving up a traditional Thanksgiving meal with a la carte options for diners. If you’re in the mood for something non-traditional, the restaurant is also offering Italian dishes such as Fritto Misto, filet of sole and lasagna. For families that prefer to dine later in the day, this may be a good choice, as the restaurant is open until 9pm. 
    H20 Seafood and Sushi, with locations in Smithtown and East Islip, is serving up a traditional Turkey Dinner (complete with stuffing, gravy, cranberry relish) as well as their regular menu offerings. Starters, salads, sushi, raw bar, oysters, mussels, fish, lobster, meat and more – this place is a seafood lover’s paradise. My menu favorites include the Montauk roll, Crunchy Crustacean roll, Warm Goat Cheese salad, and Grilled Flat Iron Steak.
    This year, skip the stress and opt for going out with the family. Choose to avoid the grocery store, endless hours of meal prep and praying that you won’t overcook the turkey. Choose a restaurant that suits your family and focus on what’s important. In the end, the holidays are supposed to be about spending time with the people you love, right? But hey, a good meal without the long, tiring cleanup doesn’t hurt either. 

 

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