Spring Is In The Air

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April 2, 2017

Collette is fashion forward and design orientated. Practicing a healthy lifestyle, she is a stylist & wardrobe consultant. A Bachelors in communications and marketing, years of experience in the garment district, she celebrates everyday with enthusiasm for fashion and beauty while helping other women achieve their personal best.
Collettep24@yahoo.com

Can’t wrap your head around the spring and summer sunsets? Watching water come to a boil almost seems quicker. It will happen ladies, hang on! Mother nature has a strong yet celebratory welfare for us all. She will always pull through. This spring we have so much to look forward to. A twist on citrus, anything pink and chokers are your front runners.
Orange, would seemingly be a color off the beat and path. Yet every day the sunrise and the sunset, delivers a refined romance that often goes without the proper celebration. So happy to announce we are currently seeing a twist on this citrus, orange in a soft cantaloupe adoring our sheer blouses, pixie pant, and even splashed into our accessories. Easy to infuse a mandarin make your choice as to how you want to represent this color. Make sure you express this color in your chic spring line up!
Anything pink softens the delivery. Happy to announce a huge trend for Spring 2017, starlets proudly sport this color. Even if you opt for only single pink accessory, your romance will be refined. Who doesn't feel pretty in pink? Fuchsia, petal, blush or baby pink all have a place. A twill blouse, an oversized sweatshirt, a wrap dress, even a pair of funky pink distressed jeans are all over the catwalk. Early blooms of pink bring renewal, promise for rejuvenation and hope for this fresh ultra modern spring season. So tickled with pink.
We are also rewarded with pure white. Any accessory in white is welcomed with wide open arms. Blissful and pure, the white influence brings the renewal that we long awaited for this winter. The fresh take on white in an ankle bootie is super hot to the white trim on your fabulous sunglasses. This can really impact a simple outfit. Paired with white jeans and a bright jacket. This Spring is really about embracing the new color and splashing it in unassuming accessories. The presence goes a lot further than drowning your body in a monochromatic mood. Which does have a place, but just not this spring.
The long anticipated wait is slowly drawing in. Time to think lighter, brighter, softer and luminous. A little confidence goes a long way, coupled with any of this seasons new scorching trends, you will own it! Bring your sultry self without having an identity crisis, yes we can finally have it all!

Dishin’ With Denise… Holy ‘Casseravioli’

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April 2, 2017

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.

Around the globe The Easter Holiday is synonymous with religion, faith, great family celebrations, and great food preparations. After the long cold winter it is also “Springtime” I will always remember and keep my beloved Italian heritage alive, as well as incorporating our wonderful American traditions~ therefore giving me the best of both continents!
Here is a new take on water boiled, possibly soggy ravioli~ make this ravioli casserole, a hearty, well-structured casserole with fresh made ravioli, marinara sauce, sausage, fresh mozzarella, ricotta, fresh herbs and texture with unbeatable flavors that harmonize together.
This is Italian food at its best~ enjoy all the finest elements of a Blessed Easter! xoxo Denise

Make your homemade marinara meat sauce.
1 large Vidalia onion diced
2 large cloves of garlic minced
2 large cans of imported San’ Marzano whole tomatoes
1 large fresh bunch of basil
1 large fresh bunch of parsley
2 (12 count) boxes of fresh ravioli (frozen) can be found at any Italian specialty store. I went to Giuseppe’s.
1 lb. fresh mozzarella
1 lb. fresh ricotta (can be found at Giuseppe’s)
Grated fresh Locatteli cheese
Pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh black pepper and sea salt
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
6 sweet links of Italian sausage, 6 links of hot Italian sausage (decase both for browning up the loose meat in frying pan).

   Sauté onion in olive oil until caramelized, golden and soft. Add garlic for 2 minutes, remove and place aside. In frying pan add sausage meat and brown and break down until crumbled. Put aside. Now add onion, garlic and 2 cans of tomatoes (1 blended and 1 hand squeezed) Cook on med/low for 30 minutes add a handful of chopped basil reserving the rest for garnish. Add 2 T of chopped fresh parsley. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh black pepper and sea salt to taste. Add the sausage meat and stir through. In a casserole dish layer bottom of pan with fresh marinara sauce then place frozen ravioli in dish close to each other, sprinkle a few spoons of grated cheese and sprinkle with fresh mozzarella. Now top with sauce and double layer with ravioli~ depending on size and amount of ravioli. Reserve some sauce for serving. Sprinkle with grated cheese and the rest of the fresh mozzarella. Place in 350 degree oven or refrigerate till ready.
   Bake for 25~30 minutes. Take out and let sit for 5 minutes, place spoonfuls of the fresh ricotta on to casserole, sprinkle with fresh basil and serve immediately!
   Enjoy that gooey goodness and remember casseroles allow you to use your own imagination (can place small meatballs, or add fresh spinach? Either way …Delicious!

Savory Eats: Cafe Red

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April 2, 2017

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.

   Located in Kings Park, Cafe Red is one of a select few eateries in the area that offers multiple menus, a charming atmosphere and consistent quality cuisine. Branding themselves as "new American cuisine with Italian flair", their menus combine classic Italian elements with contemporary twists showcased in menu offerings such as mussels in a "savory Thai curry sauce" or short rib in a "cabernet reduction with crispy onions".
   While there may be modern elements intertwined with classic ingredients, the service and atmosphere are nothing short of "old school". Cafe Red is somewhere you feel at home, regardless of how many times you've visited this humble abode. The owner, managers and staff are gracious, friendly and accommodating. Servers are knowledgeable and always smiling, and this is something that stuck with me during my time at the establishment.
   The atmosphere at Cafe Red is cozy and familiar. Simple and far from ornate, their style is classic – with a heavy focus on warmth and comfortability. Eccentric trinkets and a blackboard menu are unexpected, yet charming additions.
   They have two menus – Lunch & Brunch and Dinner. Lunch & Brunch consists of: Appetizers, Salads, Brunch, Pasta, Fish, Meat & Chicken. Menu highlights include: Fried Calamari, Sea Scallop Salad, Cafe Red Rancheros, Hay & Straw, House Made Gnocci, Capriciossa and French-Style Short Rib.
   Ingredients are fresh, and each entree I tasted had memorable elements. The fried food is lightly battered and never heavy, while the meat dishes are hearty and flavorful. I was especially fond of the spread that was served with the bread-basket – extremely savory and tasty.
   The "little touches" are the big winners here at Cafe Red, and the dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service separate them from many establishments I have previously visited. The details are carefully thought through, and it is obvious to customers with each and every order. When you experience a meal at Cafe Red, you're reminded of Sunday dinner with the family, wine flowing, multiple courses – and an unspoken assured comfort that your entree will be just as good as it was last time. I truly believe consistency is one of the most important elements in the industry, and Cafe Red has mastered this without question.
   Whether you're looking for a new neighborhood favorite or brainstorming where to host your next event, I recommend that you visit Cafe Red and experience their cuisine, hospitality and very "red" atmosphere. New customers and existing patrons will certainly enjoy the experience and cuisine, regardless of the menu they choose to peruse. Located on Main Street in Kings Park, open Sunday through Saturday (7 days week), I suggest you drop in for brunch, lunch or dinner and see what it's all about.

Enhancing a Wreath

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April 2, 2017

Kim Montenero is a freelance writer and craft designer. Her work has been featured in Reloved Magazine, Parade.com and The Huffington Post. She blogs at
www.exquisitelyunremarkable.com where she encourages individuals to feather their nests with super easy and elegant DIY and craft projects regardless of their skill level. She can be contacted through her website.

I am a sucker for a pretty wreath, which is funny, because I really don’t like fake flowers. Usually in my home I opt for grocery store tulips, plants or fresh fruit. Unfortunately, none of these items lend themselves to long term displays, so if I want color and softness on my walls or doors, then fake flowers it is (although the idea of a cupcake wreath is very, very tempting!).
   With spring around the corner, I wanted to add something colorful to my front door, but I didn’t really want to spend a ton of money. Big surprise.
   I have stated before that I am downright cheap when it comes to my accessories, so the idea of paying fifty to a hundred bucks for a wreath, that I may or may not hate next season, just doesn't fly.
   So what’s a girl to do? Why DIY of course. Now, I know the idea of making a wreath from scratch can be intimidating and it can also get expensive, depending on your design and supplies. That's why I cheat. Yup. I make my wreaths almost from scratch. The design is basically set for you, so all you’re really doing is enhancing a wreath and anyone can do that.
   For this project, I started with a clearance wreath. It was $4.99, I kid you not, but it was also kind of a mess. The grapevine was cracked, the flowers were sparsely placed and many of them were falling off, but I knew that with a few bucks and a little glue, it could be outstanding. Of course, this technique would work on an, old wreath you already own or a thrift store find, as well.
   I removed the flowers from the grapevine and used floral wire to reattach them to a wire frame I had in my craft stash. To add fullness, I purchased a few more blooms for under five dollars. They were clearance, of course, and I had a coupon.
   Once I was happy with my overall design, I used my glue gun to fix any droopy or unruly buds. The ribbon came with the wreath. It was a matted and awful looking bow, so I untied it, ironed it and simply looped it around the wire for a more whimsical look. Fabulous. Even if it is fake. Are you a wreath doctor?

Hershey Park Announces New Experiences For 2017

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April 2, 2017

• Hersheypark Amusement Park, the 121-acre theme park in Hershey, PA, will welcome exciting new elements in 2017, its 110th season!

• Hershey Triple Tower attraction, the first choose-your-thrill triple tower in the United States, will be comprised of three drop towers of different heights: Hershey’s Tower, Reese’s Tower and Hershey’s Kisses Tower. With three towers, the new attraction will offer an experience for each member of the family with varying heights, thrill levels and speeds. Each tower will operate independently, launch at varying times and have its own ride staff. Hersheypark is the first amusement facility with three towers at different heights. Hershey Triple Towers, will be open during all operating seasons, weather permitting.

• A new Chick-fil-A® will be added to the Park’s culinary offering. With a menu serving fan favorites including delicious breakfast options, the eatery will be located in Founder’s Way and open Monday through Saturday.

• Guests have the option to purchase All Day Drink/Dining Plans that offer significant discounts on food and beverages inside the Park during the summer operating season.

• Hersheypark Sweet Start program is expanding! Season Pass Holders and Resorts guests can start their day before the gates officially open with up to one hour early admittance in select areas of the Park including, new for 2017, Kissing Tower Hill and Hershey Triple Tower. Plus, Sweet Start guests can enjoy breakfast at Chick-fil-A®.

• Hersheypark Season Pass Holders will be treated to exclusive Appreciation Events throughout 2017. Events will include exclusive access to select rides, special discounts, visits with Hershey’s Characters and more.

• The Springtime in the Park event returns to Hersheypark April 8-9 and 14-16, 2017.

To stay current on all the happenings at Hersheypark, visit www.Hersheypark.com and connect with branded social media channels: Hersheypark on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter plus Snapchat at Hersheyparksnap.

The Paramount

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April 2, 2017

Bambi Baby

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March 19, 2017

Being expectant parents, whether for the first time or adding to your family, is an experience unlike any other—a potent mix of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety. Among the many unknowns, one thing is certain: you want to create a safe, cozy, beautiful nest for your little one. Bambi Baby understands that desire, and the Ortega family and their staff have helped fulfill it for over 35 years.
   Established in 1976, Bambi Baby is a family owned and operated business offering a broad range of premium baby furniture, strollers, car seats, baby gear and more at the lowest possible prices. They have two store locations, one in West New York, New Jersey, and their newest location in Melville, which opened in September 2016. There’s also an ecommerce site, where you can browse their extensive selection and order online.
   Bambi Baby carries only high quality baby products, and they are dedicated to serving all the needs of newly expectant parents-to-be, as well as more experienced ones. Their goal is to make life easier for parents, and they pride themselves on customer service and satisfaction. Their experts are available to assist you on the phone and in-store.
   At Bambi Baby, their motto is, “We deliver everything BUT the baby!” They are the largest online premium baby furniture company in the country and carry top-of-the-line furniture brands like Dolce Babi, Pali, Romina, and more. They have never sold a crib that has been recalled, which speaks to the standards they insist upon from their vendors. In addition to baby furniture and nursery sets, they also carry a wide array of strollers, car seats, clothing, accessories, and more.
   The goal at Bambi Baby is to make your shopping experience simple and easy with a well-informed staff to answer any questions you may have. Establishing a smooth, pleasant relationship is a priority for them, which is reflected in their many positive reviews and testimonials. “I was happy with the prices and selection at Bambi Baby,” says Lisa Y., “I am a research queen when it comes to buying and the prices here were great. Thanks!”
   Let Bambi Baby take care of you so you can take care of your bambino! Bambi Baby is located at 516 Walt Whitman Road (Route 110), Melville and is open every day except Tuesday. Call them at (877) 882-2624 or check them out online at www.bambibaby.com.

Cherry Blossom Season

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March 19, 2017

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 is forthcoming in Seventh Quarry. She recently self-published a collection of poems and completed the 50,000-word novel-writing challenge during November’s NaNoWriMo. Kathy offers freelance writing, editing, and proofreading services (kahorowitz@gmail.com)
www.kathyhorowitz.com.

Now that spring is in the air and skiing season is almost over, it’s time to head south for cherry blossom season in Washington, D.C. and take in sights at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. For a long weekend, the following attractions are sure to enhance your visit:

Washington, D.C.:

• Nat’l. Cherry Blossom Festival (www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org). The Opening Ceremony of the gift of trees from Japan to the United States opens March 15, 2017. Visit the website for other events around this time.

• National Museum of African American History & Culture (https://nmaahc.si.edu). This museum has been the labor of love for Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Founding Director, for the past 11 years and is now the most popular one in the country. He has said that, “The African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American.” Currently there are almost 37,000 historical artifacts, documents, photography and media.

• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour (www.expedia.com/Washington). For a $49 1-day ticket you can relax on the double-decker bus with 360-degree views and explore the National Mall, the White House, Capitol Hill, and the Jefferson Memorial. There’s a choice of 4 extensive routes so that you can design your own itinerary and get a flavor of our country’s capital.

Inner Harbor, Baltimore:

• National Aquarium (https://aqua.org). See more than 17,000 specimens representing over 750 species. Visit the bottlenose dolphins and Coral Reef and awe at the iridescent jellyfish.

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (www.npca.org). Visit this star-shaped fort where Francis Scott Key wrote “The Star Spangled Banner” during the War of 1812. The view from atop brings you back in time. There are placards that line the pathways indicating the year each state entered the union as well as a statuesque bronze figure of the poet, artist, and singer Orpheus of Greek mythology.

• Light City Baltimore, March 31-April 8 (www.lightcity.org). The Light Art Walk features more than 50 attractions including illuminated visual artworks and installations featuring local, national, and international artists. A must see!

• The Maryland Science Center (www.mdsci.org). It includes three levels of exhibits, a planetarium, and an observatory.

• Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum is three blocks west of Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Learn about the history of one of the most famous baseball players in history who was born George Herman “Babe” Ruth on February 6, 1895.

Whether or not you’ve been to the nation’s capitol and the Inner Harbor at Baltimore, there‘s always something new and exciting to see or do. Happy Travels!

Dishin’ With Denise… Chillin’ Season is Almost Gone But “Italy’s Chili” is Here To Stay!

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March 19, 2017

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

Yes say goodbye Winter~bring on Spring! This is a wonderful meal to enjoy “al fresco” but to be really honest~ just about anywhere and any season this savory recipe will do. The fresh garden aromas just invoke the senses and the warmest memories of that outdoor weather feeling. The bright, fresh, red and succulent tomatoes, the early green petite’ peas and oh that~sweet, fresh green basil AHH!! Has me dreaming of planting my herbs and reconnecting with the thawed earth once again~new beginnings. No worries these temperatures and warm thoughts are right around the corner as we flip the calendar over. La Vita e’ Bella! (Life is beautiful)
You will need equal amounts of ground beef to sausage meat (Hot and sweet de~cased or loose) 2lbs. of each meat. (I know it sounds like a lot …but trust me this is Italian chili)

2 Vidalia onions chopped
3~4 fresh, chopped fine cloves of garlic
4~5 large Bay leaves
2 cups of fresh basil chopped and whole leaves
   for extra garnish
Pinch or 2 of pepperoncini (red pepper flakes)
Fresh ground black pepper and sea salt to taste
4 large cans have imported from Italy
   (San’ Marzano) whole tomatoes
2 cans pureed in blender ~ 2 cans squeezed
   and crushed by hand
½ cup of red wine…or more xoxo
½ cup or more of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)
   extra for top drizzling
Fresh grated imported Locatelli Cheese
Fresh or Polly O’s Old Fashioned Ricotta Cheese
1 Lb. box of Barilla Ditilini

(I only use Barilla~ it cooks to perfection in 10 minutes Al dente) Follow box directions and bring salted water to rapid boil and cook for just about 10 minutes, drain immediately run cold water on pasta to keep it from further cooking.
   Now add oil to your largest sauté pan and heat, add onion, basil, bay leaves, and spices. Cook until soft~ add garlic for 2 minutes. Remove to a dish, now put all your meat into pan and keep turning until meat is browned and cooked. Add your tomatoes and wine cook for 30 minutes on low. Add frozen peas for 2 minutes. Taste for seasoning.
   Now mix in your pasta and toss together. When paired together this perfect foundation of meat sauce~ makes this meal healthy as it includes the great food list~of olive oil, grated cheese, fresh green’s onions, garlic and peas…
   DELICIOUS and NUTRITIOUS! Top your dish with a small shovelful of Ricotta and a drizzle more of evvo and whole basil leaves and boot it up with more red pepper for a real Italian chili~kick! Ok… so maybe I can’t pot the dirt just yet~ so I will pot in my pan and scrape away the winter! Get your sweater’s on and get out! Xo Denise

Teen Skincare

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March 19, 2017

Rachael Severino is a 10th grade student 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.

Facial Skin Care
Decisions we make now often affect us in the future. How well you tend to your skin in your teens and early twenties will impact your skin in your thirties, forties and so on.

The first step to long lasting, healthy skin is finding a skin regime that works for you and sticking to it. To begin, you should wash your face twice a day – no more, no less. Find a soap or facial cleanser designed for your skin type, and switch it up with an alternate formula/brand every few weeks so your skin doesn’t become unresponsive. You also need a toner, one you use in the shower or after (choose what works best for you), to close up your pores after the dirt and oil are removed. Afterwards, be sure to moisturize your skin. You may want to consider two moisturizers – one for face and one for your eye area. The eye area is the most delicate skin on your body and needs its own moisturizer to gently care for it. And of course, DRINK WATER.

If you have dry skin, there are steps you can take to give your skin a soft glow that’s silky to the touch. In addition to your daily regimen, a weekly aloe mask or raspberry mask will add moisture back into your skin, replenishing lost vitamins and repairing any damage. If you have a little extra money to invest, Lush has masks that work wonders. For less expensive options, Forever 21 has an array of masks in stock. If you’re interested in creating your own home versions, look no further than your fridge. Olive oil, milk, cream, yogurt, coconut oil, and avocado will each do the trick.

For those with oily skin, you too, need to develop a fantastic personalized skincare regime. Use masks specifically designed for oily skin up to twice a week, giving skin positive hydration and other benefits. Drinking lots of water and consuming fruits and vegetables will also help, not just with your skin but your overall well-being. Unlike dry skin, be very careful with home remedies. You don’t want to dehydrate your skin or exfoliate too many layers.

Should you get a bad bout of acne, there are treatments you can use to help speed up the healing process. Clay masks are a best bet. Use them once a week to help prevent further breakouts. Charcoal masks should be used in more difficult cases, as they quite literally pull the blackheads and pimples from your skin…uncomfortable, but effective. And I hope this isn’t becoming too repetitive, but remember to drink water!

Skin care doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does need to be consistent. Treat your skin well and it will usually be kind in return.

Growing Popularity Of A Plant-Based Diet

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March 19, 2017

Jackie Demeri Costello is a Certified Yoga Teacher, Holistic Educator, and the author of the Mom’s Choice Gold Award-winning book, Animooves: Yoga & Creativity Inspired by Animals. She teaches chair and restorative yoga classes at The Vitality Center in Commack, and is also available for private yoga sessions. She may be reached at animooves@gmail.com.

Dr. Oz says a vegan diet is the big movement of 2017. Let’s take a look at the vegan diet, do some myth-busting, and get to know some local eateries that are serving up creative and delicious plant-based fare.

What exactly is a “vegan diet”?
A vegan diet is exclusively plant-based and includes vegetables, beans, nuts, grains, seeds, and fruits. However, some vegans will eat honey.

What are the benefits of a vegan diet?
According to the American Dietetic Association, a vegan diet is able to meet all nutritional requirements. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine advocates for plant-based diets in light of scientific research, such as the highly respected China Study, that has found the vegan diet beneficial for cardiac health, reversing coronary disease, and reduced risk factors for many other serious illnesses. Add to that the cache of celebrities “going vegan” for its slimming effects, and we have a bonafide movement in the making!

How do vegans get enough protein in their diet?
It is a myth that a diet must include animal foods to supply adequate protein. In fact, all plant foods contain some protein, and a varied plant-based diet will provide the essential amino acids necessary for health.

Can vegan cuisine satisfy a gourmet palate?
The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” In addition to the plethora of vegan cookbooks on the market, there are many local restaurants and shops prepared to dazzle the most discriminating foodie. Here are a few for starters:

• Pandora’s Lunchbox is the compassionate kitchen of Alicia Randolph – Lucchesi, offering a vast menu of primarily organic entrees, soups, salads, and wraps lovingly made and delivered to your door! Email alicia@pandorasproducts.net or text/call at 631-889-3471.

For a unique evening out, Alicia and her husband, Rob, also host the popular Food Fix Cinema event at Cyrus: Chai & Coffee Company in Bayshore, where a scene-themed menu is paired with a cult-classic movie.

Alicia’s delicious creations are also served at Golden Sparrow, Bayport; Juice-n-Blendz, Babylon Village; Little Nook Cafe, West Sayville; Roast Coffee & Tea Trading Co., Patchogue.

• The Purple Elephant, Northport. Complete vegan lunch and dinner menu alongside its omnivore selections in an inviting setting with a relaxed, Costa Rican vibe.

• Plant Wise, Dix Hills. Serves up shakes, fruit parfaits, salads, wraps, and savory bowls with international themes such as chickpea masala, Greek falafel, and much more.

• 3 Brothers Vegan Cafe, Copiague. Founded by the chef who brought vegan pizza to Farmingdale’s 3 Brothers Pizza, offers appetizers, pastas, entrees and wood fired pizzas with vegan cheeses made in-house.

• Batata Cafe, Northport. has an ever-expanding menu of vegan sandwiches, salads, soups, bowls, and desserts, and a freezer full of locally made, delicious and decadent, Sweet Annabelle’s vegan ice cream!

• Funky Om Grab and Go take-out options include soup, salads, and luscious desserts at its two Huntington locations.

Enjoy!

The Spring Fling

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March 19, 2017

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.

No – it’s not a dance or a party. It’s just my way of saying it’s time to take that ball (all your clutter) and head it toward the goal post or basket – a big basket (I fear your wastebasket isn’t big enough). Super Bowl is over and your guests may not be coming back until Easter or Passover, but look at the calendar. How much time do you need to get your house in order?
   In January, I had small group sessions on clutter control in our Uniquely Natalie shop. These were even more helpful than the larger seminars because people were able to open up and share and the group, as well as myself, could be supportive – in a tough love way.
   But cleanup is only the first order of business. The next is to take an assessment of the physical needs of your home – the roof, air conditioning, appliances that are on their way out and other items that might not look like you are “decorating” but can build up to big ticket numbers if left unattended. The garden cleanup is another project that needs attention by you or others. In short, your home can only take care of you if you take care of it.
   Now for the old and tired furnishings. Are they going to be replaced, reupholstered, used as place holders? Is the floor plan a good one for your home and your lifestyle? Can you benefit from a re-assessment of useable space? Is this the year you are going for a major renovation – kitchen, bathroom, extension? As always, the first action needed is a plan of action. It shows intent and can be backed up by doing research to create a viable budget for your wants and needs. So far, no money has been spent, but the time you spend to do your planning can save you lots of money – and stress, as well.

• Think out of the box and maybe out of your comfort zone. Check out the internet and magazines for design and renovation ideas that appeal and see if some can work for you and your home.

• Would you consider a fresh coat of paint to enhance your existing furnishing?

• Are your window treatments dated and too heavy? Try removing most of them, leaving just the sheers, or putting up new sheers to let light and spring in?

• Would new accessories refresh or is it time to clear out the display cabinets and leave only what you truly love so people, as well as you, can actually see these items and enjoy the view?

• Have you ever visited a consignment store? – Our Uniquely Natalie shop is filled with truly beautiful quality pieces that will fit into your budget and still look new. (By the way, if you’re not sure about what furniture styles go with what or how to mix them, I’ll be giving a seminar on March 26th to help you create an eclectic and updated look in your home).

So get the momentum going. How will you welcome the coming of spring in your home and life?

Ciro's Italian Restaurant

Maria's Mexican & Latin Cuisine

O Sole Mio

Chiddy’s Cheese Steaks

La Piazza

Rincon Criollo

ET Week Media Group

Ciro's Italian Restaurant

Maria's Mexican & Latin Cuisine

O Sole Mio

Chiddy’s Cheese Steaks

La Piazza

Rincon Criollo

Spring Is In The Air

Dishin’ With Denise… Holy ‘Casseravioli’

Savory Eats: Cafe Red

Enhancing a Wreath

Hershey Park Announces New Experiences For 2017

The Paramount

Bambi Baby

Cherry Blossom Season

Dishin’ With Denise… Chillin’ Season is Almost Gone But “Italy’s Chili” is Here To Stay!

Teen Skincare

Growing Popularity Of A Plant-Based Diet

The Spring Fling

About ET Week

ET Week Media Group