Tribute: In Honor of a Good Man
This past June, our community lost a wonderful loving guy, Anthony Annunziato. Owner and operator of the well-known Catfish Annie’s of Commack, Tony was a larger-than-life personality. Growing up on the streets of Brooklyn, Tony always spoke his mind. Sometimes you liked what he had to say and sometimes you didn’t. For me, that was probably the one quality I loved most about him. He was real.
When I heard the news of Tony’s passing, I was devastated. Though he was a customer of mine, he meant so much more to me than that. A 33-year relationship that at times was a battle of wits that later on developed into a mutually caring and respectful relationship. As fellow business owners, we used to share our day to day challenges. Whenever I was down, Tony always managed to pick me up and reminded me that family always kept everything in perspective.
I know how much family meant to him and how beloved he was by them. Tony and his wife Kathleen owned their first fish market in Farmingdale back in 1972. They opened Catfish Annie’s in 1977 and have been running it successfully ever since. The Annunziatos raised three children, that has given them a beautiful life with and a growing family of grandchildren. Tony’s love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable. This is his legacy.
His staff became his family, many of which have been with him for 20 and 30 years and was very proud of the business Kathleen and himself had built.
Anthony Annunziato was a good man, a hard working man and a beloved man by all that had the privilege of knowing him. Till this day Catfish Annie’s traditions go on serving up the freshest of seafood. Thats what Tony would have wanted.
God give the Annunziato family strength to carry on and may his memory be a blessing.
Home & Garden: Our Home Is Our Sanctuary
There truly is “no place like home”, and each home is as unique as the people, who dwell in it! The beauty of having a home is that it can be an expression of who we are, what we like, how we think, live and function. It is really ours to put our individual stamp on, and what a wonderful thing to be able to do! The difference between a “house” and a “home” is this very important factor: the love that exists within! When we fill our house with people, pets, décor, mementos and creature comforts, we establish a space in which to create meaningful memories that fill our hearts. We seek to revisit these magical moments, again and again, and this is what cements the importance and the value of our homes in our day-to-day lives. We all know the saying: “Home is where the heart is”; gathering with loved ones and creating a special place in which to do so, enables us to open ourselves to joy, community and to traditions (both old and new). Our homes offer us a place of respite, safety and peace. Be they large or small, elaborate or simple, they become an extension of ourselves and the people and principles we cherish. You can learn a lot about a person when you enter their home. To be granted permission to do so is a very singular privilege, and one we should never take lightly. Opening your home is opening your heart. You are giving others a chance to see you in your most personal milieu. In today’s society, there are many ways to extend the space of your home for both entertaining and enjoyment. Outside living spaces, some replete with kitchens, televisions, couches and pools, offer another way for us to invite guests or just to experience our home in a different facet. Planting beautiful gardens offers a wealth of benefits too. Not only do we reap the rewards of greater curb appeal, but we get to commune with nature and enjoy the beauty of spending time outdoors, in quiet solitude, or gathering with friends and family. No matter where we choose to live, how we choose to live, or with whom we choose to live, we will always know that we are blessed to have a place to call our own, and within it, to create a life that is full, comfortable, happy and unique!
Fashion & Beauty: Cool Summer Fashion
Girls, the month of heat is upon us (August). Hair up, make up minimal and running out of posh outfits to keep us looking chic and comfortable in the uncomfortable fever.
Of course we can throw on any sundress from the back of the closet, but minimal effort is not what we strive for. Polished and put together allows us to be confident through out the day, and our outfit is the place to start.
This summer is all about bright colors, prints, white jeans and all white ensembles. Linen sets and large beach totes are front and center for the perfect daytime outfit. It’s all about class and comfort, and I’m going to tell you about a few Long Island boutiques that have great summer attire and the most amazing accessories to compliment some piece you may already have in your closet.
Let’s start with Graffiti in Babylon Village. They host a variety of pieces, from tops and skirts to dresses and jewelry. This place has it all! The way they display their clothes is so unique and they have everything to put together the perfect summer party outfit! Definitely a go to for me!
Next stop, Shop Lyss and Lin in Commack! This perfect boutique hosts a chic, instagrammable vibe. Their clothes are so fun and different. They have the perfect sets for vacation mode, or if you want everyone going “omg where did you get that?” It seems like linen and crochet are their specialty this summer, which goes flawlessly with this summer's trends. Check out Lyss and Lin if you haven’t already, you won’t be disappointed!
Now, it’s Tandy Wear’s time to shine! With both of their locations in Commack, the owner, Tandy Jeckel, kept her original store and turned it into a sale store. Perfect to grab gifts for a girlfriend, or a little extra something for yourself, all while on a budget.
The newer of the two stores is located on Jericho Turnpike. Its first anniversary is coming up in November and It has everything! From dresses to jumpsuits, skirts or jeans, comfortable sweat sets and the perfect piece of jewelry; Tandy Wear has it all! You can find the perfect outfit and the most flawless accessories to compliment it all in one store! Tandy says “I want readers to know that coming to Tandy Wear isn’t just about going shopping. We work really hard to create a warm and welcoming environment with absolutely no judgment ever.”
You can look forward to seeing a lot of quick slip on clothes and leopard prints appearing in her stores come the fall! I mean after all, clothes are a girl’s best friend, and the girls that get it, get it.
Out on the Vine: Our Guide to Local Wineries
Get your sundress, floppy hats, and boat shoes on; we’re taking a trip to the East End to catch up with some of Long Island’s best wineries.
We’ll start with Macari Vineyards in Mattituck. Located on nearly 500 acres, the vineyard hosts guided tastings and private events like weddings and parties. They also offer a private wine cellar that gives a cozy, rustic yet elegant ambiance to any occasion.
Next stop is the famous Wolffer Estate Vineyard. Located in Sagaponack, the vineyard produces reds, whites, cider and rose. They are known for their Summer in a Bottle Rose. From the light graceful taste to the beautiful, delicate packaging- this rose pairs perfectly with summer. In addition to their delicious wine, the vineyard hosts charming events like weekend morning pilates and yoga in the vines and sunset music on Friday and Saturday nights. You can check out the vineyard’s website for more event details.
If you’re looking for a more local taste, you can take a ride over to St. James to indulge in everything Harmony Vineyards has to offer. With a beautiful view overlooking the water, this smaller, tightknit vineyard hosts sophisticated backyard ambience. This is one of my favorite vineyards for a casual day. I may also be playing favoritism, I got engaged here!
Del Vino Vineyard of Northport roars with class. From the second you pull up, to the second you sit down, the building is exquisite, the food menu is delicious, and it is particularly tailored to complement their exceptional wines. It is the perfect way to get an out east feel without the drive.
Enjoy all Long Island has to offer – spend the day Out on the Vine!
Out & About: Summer Fun on Long Island
There’s nothing like summer on Long Island. From the beaches, to the water parks, to the backyard barbecues, when the days heat up its time to kick back and relax. If you haven’t done so already, be sure to make a bucket list of things to do before autumn arrives.
Got kids?
Hit the waterparks, beaches, mini golf, go karting, or go for a hike on the shady Green belt trails or any one of the island’s beautiful parks… don’t forget the bug spray. Break the norm by trying out different ice creams or frozen yogurts at a different village each week throughout Nassau and Suffolk. Too hot? Try bowling or cool off at a movie. Hit an aquarium or a petting zoo and be sure to make it a great annual adventure. Plan a camping trip, even if it’s in your own backyard.
Date Night?
Go for a stroll on the boardwalk whether on the ocean side, by Fire Island or the Sound at Heckscher State Park. Climb to the top of a lighthouse for a bird’s-eye view at sunset. Don’t forget to see the sunrise by the ocean for unforgettable memories. Pack a picnic and include a bottle of vino from one of our famous north fork wineries. Plan an evening sail from one of Long Island’s harbors and top the night off with a tapas bar.
Friendly fun.
Pick a game night to reconnect with family or friends. Have potluck dinners to keep things chill and bring marshmallows for the firepit. Grab an Uber and hit the Hamptons for live music at a trendy night spot. Better yet, rent a house with your besties, kick back and reminisce of times past. Visit one of our many quaint coastal towns or even tour an oyster farm.
Do things need a fix-me-up?
Sometimes when it’s too hot outside, it’s a good time to clean, organize or finish a home improvement project. Set aside some time for upkeep, it’s just as important since you’ll feel less stressed when it’s time for fun. Daily/weekly maintenance…I like to set a timer for 10 minutes and spend this time getting done whatever I’m putting off. Make a checklist the day before and feel rejuvenated when it’s complete. Celebrate by treating yourself to something well deserved.
Hobbies and fresh starts.
With the long days ahead, take some time for yourself to reset. Take a time out for you whether it’s a hobby, self improvement or a new beginning. Life is what you put into it so begin right now.
The Baking Coach: Honey Fruit Salsa & Buttery Cinnamon Chips
Honey Fruit Salsa
Prep Time: 40 minutes – Servings: 12
YOU WILL NEED :
- 2 cups chopped strawberries
- 1 cantaloupe chopped into ½ inch pieces
- 1 fresh pineapple chopped into ½ inch pieces (1 ½ cups)
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 cup 1 inch cubed watermelon
- 1 kiwi peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup honey or 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of chili powder – depends on heat of the powder add to taste (Start with a tablespoon and increase a teaspoon at a time to reach desired flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
In a large size bowl combine all ingredients and serve with chips!
Must be kept refrigerated.
Buttery Cinnamon Chips
YOU WILL NEED :
- 1 – 8.5 to 10.5 ounce bag corn tortillas chips
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
- Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees.
- Prepare two cookie sheets lined with parchment paper or grease well.
- In a large bowl, using your hands coat tortilla chips with the butter, place an even layer on the cookie sheet. In a small bowl combine, sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over tortilla chips and bake for 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven allow cooling for 5 minutes and enjoying.
Health & Wellness: Seasonal Eating
In general, people tend to crave salads and watermelon in the summer. Coincidentally, that’s when these foods are in season. Eating seasonally, in accordance with nature, offers many health benefits. First, it involves eating local, which means fresher, more nutritious foods. It also helps give the body what it needs during that particular season to stay in balance. Another factor involved is the “warming” or “cooling” nature of foods, a concept determined by food type and how it’s grown and prepared. Following this theory, there are many food choices you can make to help avoid overheating this summer.
We are drawn to raw foods in the summer because they are more cooling than cooked foods. The more lightly and quickly a food is cooked, the more cooling it will be. Also, plant foods that take the shortest time to grow– lettuce, zucchini, cucumbers, are more cooling than those that take longer–carrot, parsnip, cabbage. Interestingly, foods with blue, green or purple colors are more cooling than similar foods that are red, orange, or yellow (a green pepper is more cooling than a red one).
Most fruits are cooling and cleansing. Not surprisingly, tropical fruits (pineapples, bananas) are the best fruits for summer, since most are highly cooling. When eaten in winter, they may cause coldness and weakness. Fall fruits that store (apples and dried fruit) are best suited for winter.
Eating spicy foods, such as cayenne and red chili peppers, though initially hot, can also be considered cooling because they can cause you to perspire and cool down your body. That is why they are popular in countries with hot climates like Mexico and India.
Other cooling foods:
- Fruits/Vegetables: melons, avocado, mango, celery, mushrooms, fennel.
- Grains: brown rice, barley, millet, wheat.
- Beans: Northern, navy, kidney, lima.
- Spices: Cilantro, mint. Warming/Avoid: cinnamon, parsley, basil.
- Drinks: Watermelon or apple juice, coconut water or milk, herbal teas, vegetable broth. Avoid: alcohol, coffee.
- Meats: Seafood. All other meats are warming and should be avoided.
- Dairy: Yogurt, goat cheese. All other dairy is neutral, except butter, which is warming.
- In general, reduce salt, oil, fats, and spicy foods.
Cooling Fennel Avocado Salad
YOU WILL NEED :
- 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds
- 2 bulbs Fennel, sliced
- 4 Avocados, sliced*
- 1 tbsp. fresh minced Ginger
- 3 tbsp. Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp. Rice Wine Vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh Cilantro, chopped
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
Place almonds in a pan and cook, tossing until light brown, watching carefully so they don’t burn.
Combine ingredients in bowl and toss.
* Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice on avocados to prevent browning.
ET Recipe of the Month: Peanut Butter Cookie Banana Pudding
Single-serve solutions are perfect for sharing with guests, whether you’re hosting a pool party or calling over loved ones for a backyard barbecue. This Peanut Butter Cookie Banana Pudding can be prepped first thing in the morning and refrigerated until it’s time for a treat. Portioned in 1/4-pint canning jars (or small, kid-proof cups to avoid a mess) for individual servings, you can simply break them out when the dessert bell dings and top them with whipped topping and extra cookies. At 7 grams per serving, a nutrient-rich powerhouse like peanuts can put a better-for-you spin on summer sweets. They deliver the most protein of any nut and contain six essential – vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6 – and seven essential minerals – phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper and calcium. Visit gapeanuts.com to find more protein-packed recipe ideas.
Recipe courtesy of Peanut Butter Lovers on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
YOU WILL NEED :
- 1 box (5.1 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 package (16 ounces) peanut butter sandwich cookies, divided
- 12 canning jars (1/4 pint each)
- 2-3 bananas
- frozen whipped topping, thawed
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
In large measuring cup, whisk pudding mix and milk until thoroughly combined. Set aside to soft set, about 5 minutes.
Cut or break six cookies in half and set aside. Pour remainder of package in 1-gallon bag, seal it and use rolling pin to crush cookies.
Spoon layer of cookie crumbs in bottom of each jar, reserving some for topping. Top with layer of vanilla pudding. Cut one banana in half lengthwise and slice. Put layer of bananas on top of pudding. Top bananas with another layer of pudding. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. To serve, top with whipped topping and sprinkle with crushed cookies. Serve each with broken cookie half.
Note: Twelve 1/4-pint canning jars fit into disposable foil lasagna pan with clear lid for easy refrigeration and transportation.
#17056. Source: Georgia Peanut Commission
Press Release: Cactus Cafe
20 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787
(631) 312-5678
Website: cactuscafetexmex.com
As someone that has been presenting stories about local restaurants for over three decades there is now seems to be a new world order as to what is now trendy with the food scene. Tex-Mex eateries are popping up everywhere. For the founders of Cactus Café, their passion and vision for creating authentic Mexican fare began over 25 years ago.
With five locations and one just getting ready to open soon, it is evident that the secret sauce to their success is working. Vibrant colors of green, yellow, blue, and red give you the feeling that Cactus café is just a fun and happy place to come in and dine with friends and family. The founders of Cactus café are proud to tell me that their food is prepared fresh daily, with all the Tex-Mex flavors that their following of loyal patrons have grown to love. Everything you could want that is Tex-Mex, Cactus Café of Smithtown will not disappoint.
From soft tacos and burritos to quesadillas and amazing daily specials, Cactus Café has everything you crave. With dining out becoming at times impossible to afford, Cactus Café offers great value to their loyal patrons. Every night of the week all Burritos are only $6.00. That’s about 50% off their regular prices any day of the week between 10pm and 12 midnight or Mondays come in a get two enchiladas for $13.00. With everything made fresh to order that is an amazing value. Try one of their most popular dishes on the menu that the entire family can enjoy. Their Pollo a la Brasa (Peruvian rotisserie style chicken) For $29.95 it comes with rice, beans, French fries, corn bread or vegetables.
As someone that craves good fresh Mexican food here are some must try favs. The soft tacos are awesome. Typically, I’m all in for a variety of at least three. Carne Asada is made with marinated steak, sauteed onions, cilantro, and a lively lime sour cream. Their Crispy Chicken is irresistible, stuffed with lettuce, cheese with a ranch dressing offers the perfect coolness. Then there is the fish dish that I always seem to struggle over! Both the grilled Shrimp and the Fried Cod fish tacos offer a delightful freshness to the lineup.
Having a party? Cactus Café offers fantastic catering packages that will add a new twist to your next special occasion. For a guest count of at least 10 people, you can enjoy an array of party ideas like their Fajita Bar with your choice of either chicken, carne asada or shrimp all served with peppers, onions, rice, black beans, sour cream, Pico de Gallo, flour tortillas, chips and salsa with a bottle of yellow or green sauce. This is just one of the many creative themes you can create with Cactus Café.
Congratulations Cactus Café with much success as you continue to grow your brand.
Food & Drink: Al Fresco Dining
There’s nothing like summer on Long Island. The weather is supreme, and the ocean is never too far away. When the sun starts shining, the only place I want to be is waterside, with a cold drink in my hand. A few of my local favorites include Rumba, Prime, Bodhi’s Beach Shack, Drift 82, Lakehouse and Salted. on the Harbor. These range in location and price-point, but they all offer al fresco dining and an immaculate vibe.
Rumba is off the beaten path and serves creative Caribbean food. Enjoy their beloved happy hour in a beach-inspired, bright setting, complete with water views (depending on location). Their reserve rum menu is worth checking out, and their seafood dishes and tacos don’t disappoint. My go-to order is the soy and sugar cane salmon – divine.
Prime is treasured by locals for their waterfront views, raw bar offerings and extensive drink menu. I’ve been enjoying Prime for years and am never disappointed with their approachable “power lunch” specials, pitchers of delectable cocktails and desserts (Briermere pie, anyone?). I would recommend making a reservation for this one, and if you can, during sunset hours!
Bodhi’s Beach Shack is everything you’re looking for in a beach bar & restaurant. Their slogan, “blue skies and right vibes” says it all. The menu is simple, and nostalgic: baked clams, coconut shrimp, mussels, fish, and chips and more. The Bodhi Burrito should not be overlooked, especially if you’re opting for fried fish or blackened shrimp.
If you are looking for live music, bookmark Drift 82. Here you can enjoy fresh, daily musicians, serving up tunes from 4-9PM. They offer a competitive happy hour, and reggae on Sundays. While you’re enjoying the live music, I’d recommend snacking on raw bar classics, or the fish tacos.
Lake House in Bay Shore is a great option for dinner with a view. The food is delicious; think tuna tartare, grilled oysters, truffled mushroom risotto, duck confit – the list goes on. They do a stellar job of serving up seasonally inspired entrees and offering picturesque views of the Great South Bay. Their cocktail menu is one of my favorites, and I’ll never leave before having a spicy ginger margarita (seriously, try it immediately).
Salted. On The Harbor catered my wedding at their nearby sister spot, Wine Cellar. Lindsay, the owner, does an incredible job of connecting with the community and serving up the best Mediterranean salmon salad within miles! They offer happy hour 3-6 pm on weekdays (at the bar only on Fridays) and switch out menu offerings to reflect seasonal availability and inspiration. They’re located on the water in Northport Village, with dockside views of the water.
The Baking Coach: No Bake Cheesecake
YOU WILL NEED :
- 1 – 8- or 9-inch pie pan or 10-inch tart pan
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
(or approximately 10 sheets) - 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 package 8-ounce brick cream cheese, softened
- 1 package of vanilla instant pudding mix
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ pound freshly sliced strawberries to garnish
- 1 small container non-dairy whipped topping
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
Using the resealable bag, crush graham crackers with a rolling pin, gently rolling and crushing the cookies into fine crumbs. Add butter to the bag, and using one hand, crush butter into cookie crumbs until well-combined. Press cookie and butter mixture into the base of your pan; set aside in fridge.
Using a hand- mixer on medium speed, beat together the cream cheese and vanilla pudding mixture; reduce spread and slowly add in the milk so as to not create lumps. Fold in 1 cup non-dairy whip topping, then spoon mixture into the pan. Chill for two-hours or overnight; top with sliced fruit, additional whipped topping, and serve.
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