Commack December 2023
Smithtown December 2023
HOT New Salon Opens in East Northport
thesalon.cactussalon.com || 631.423.7110
With over 40 talented stylists and technicians, this facility offers state of the art equipment, uses top of the line hair products, and performs all of the latest hair techniques for color, straightening, formal styling and more. THE SALON was created by Long Island’s very own Cactus Salon Group. The concept was developed by owner Joseph Secreti to up level the experience for both his clients and staff. Secreti states “the covid pandemic took many of the ‘mom and pop’ salons out of business. It was a scary time for the industry but thankfully I have a very loyal staff that stuck together throughout the tough times”. He goes on to say “The days of ‘kitchen beauticians’ are a thing of the past and clients want a luxury experience with the true experts in our field. That’s what they get at The Salon.”
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On site, co-owner and manager Peter Mele, oversees all staff members to ensure the satisfaction of the over 1000 services they perform weekly. Mele says “We are really proud of what we’ve accomplished over the years and now have brought all of our past knowledge and experiences into what I believe to be the best hair salon on Long Island”.
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Of course, well known for their quality hair services the location also provides skin treatments, manicures and pedicures, lash extensions and more. Included in their services menu are all of the fast trending techniques, such as hair extensions, balayage color services, keratin straightening‘s, bridal party services, make up applications and more to ensure the best possible results. With any chemical treatment, The Salon requires new guests to visit for a free consultation and together with their stylist, discuss all that will take place to achieve the clients desired look and the maintenance required to keep the style looking fresh daily.
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On going education is provided weekly for all staff members, advancing their skills in all areas. This translates into the clients peace of mind knowing they are being serviced by the very best in the industry and proving once again why the Cactus branded locations surpass the standard hair salon experience.
Outback Steakhouse, Commack
631.864.7400 • outback.com • 216 Jericho Tpke., Commack
Georgios Michailidis, known to his patrons as “George,” was born in Limassol, Cyprus, and came to the United States in 2000. He received his bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Saint Francis College, but his love for the restaurant business inspired him to change direction. Since October of 2016, Georgios has been the Managing Partner of Outback Steakhouse located in Commack’s Mayfair Shopping Center.
Georgios wanted to join a company that appreciated their employees, and Outback had the right formula, offering everything he dreamed of and more. He tells ET that he is passionate about food and people and Outback’s beliefs correlate exactly with his own. His mission to build a fun and inclusive environment that values customers. Outback aims to be a favorite place to eat, drink, relax, and spend quality time with friends and family.
Working alongside two other managers, George and his team are full of passion and constantly looking to better what a dining experience should be. Manager Jason Whitley has been with Outback for nine years, having started as a bartender in the East Setauket location. When he was promoted to manager last year, he did his training at the Commack location and fell in love with the team.
Bryan McDermott, another member of the managerial team, has been at Outback since 2008. He started as a bus boy and worked his way up the ladder, becoming a manager in 2017. Bryan considers Outback of Commack as family and strives to extend that feeling to customers. He says, “Not only do we serve great food and drinks, but we offer memorable service that is hard to find elsewhere. It truly does feel like home, whether you come to work or to dine.” Since joining the Commack team four years ago, Bryan says, “Georgios has mentored me and has helped me grow not only as a manager, but as a man. He’s not just my boss, he’s my family. We take pride in building a family-oriented atmosphere where our employees love to come to work and our guests continue to return due to our genuine and welcoming service.”
Outback offers lunch and dinner seven days a week and partner with DoorDash and Uber Eats to offer delivery services. They have daily specials for guests that eat at the bar and are now offering Catering for all venues and occasions, from businesses to house parties. Georgios says their catering menu is “unique to satisfy everyone.”
When it comes to servicing customers, Georgios’s philosophy is to “treat every guest the same way you would treat somebody visiting your home for the first time.” It’s no surprise that customers have remarked on the team’s warm hospitality. Outback also embraces opportunities to give back to the community. They are involved in local schools, churches, and scout troops, and often host fundraising events. They are heavily involved with the Nassau Suffolk Autism Society as well.
You can count on Outback Steakhouse of Commack for a delicious meal and consistently generous and welcoming service from the whole staff.
Villa Olivetti Italian Ristorante
(631) 265-9228 • villaolivetti.com
In its 20-year history,Villa Olivetti, located in the heart of Saint James, has become quite the favorite amongst the locals for their excellent food and hospitality. Owner Mauricio Oliveros began his career in restaurant business back in 1977, where he started as a dishwasher in Venezuela. Over the years, he worked hard, gained experience and confidence, then migrated to the United States in the 80s, and realized his dream of becoming a restauranteur. Years following with hard work, passion, and a determination to succeed, Mauricio was asked by his boss if he would like to become a partner in a new restaurant project. Some years later, Mauricio went off on his own and the American Dream that he worked so hard to achieve became a reality.
Mauricio’s philosophy is based on providing his customers with great food in a warm and inviting ambience, keeping them returning for more – and they do! Mauricio and partner, Michael, personally greet patrons at every table to ensure that they are getting what is expected and then some. Looking for something you love, but not on the menu, Mauricio and company will do everything in their power to accommodate. In Mauricio’s own words, “the most important thing to me is that no one leaves hungry!” Getting to know his customers on a personal level is something Mauricio truly enjoys. He emphasizes importance of treating every customer as a VIP. Anyone that spends their hard-earned dollars at his establishment deserves nothing less.
While Villa Olivetti’s personal touch is outstanding, that’s not the only thing that brings people inside their doors. Upon being seated, each table is served with fresh bread and Villa Olivetti’s signature fried zucchini. According to Mauricio, the appetizers are among Villa Olivetti’s most popular dishes, including fried calamari, baked clams, and the mozzarella burrata, drizzled with balsamic glaze. Baked clams are a favorite among online reviewers.
During ET’s visit, the food was amazing and I certainly did not leave hungry! For my entrée, I had Rigatoni alla Vodka with grilled chicken. The dish came out steaming, garnished with fresh parsley. The chicken was seasoned to perfection, all bathed in a classic vodka sauce, which was creamy with a bit of a kick to it. The portions are big enough to fill you up with plenty to take home! For dessert, I had to indulge in the flan. It was incredibly rich and not overly sweet. I finished every bite! If you’re not a custard fan, tiramisu is always a safe bet.
Villa Olivetti also offers catering services and private parties, from bridal showers to rehearsal dinners, to communion parties, and everything in between. The party room can accommodate up to 100 guests. Whether you’re there for a meal out, an evening at the bar, or celebrating a special occasion, you can count on Villa Olivetti for delicious Italian food and a warm and welcoming environment.
Holiday Decorating
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s the perfect excuse to showcase your personal celebratory style! Take a look around your home, and observe how your décor trends the rest of the year. You can lean in further, or go a different direction to mix it up during this festive time of year. Don’t worry if you prefer a minimalist (or at least not over-the-top maximalist) aesthetic! Consider drawing on the following, see what speaks to you, and make it your own :
CLASSIC : The classic Christmas-card imagery with red, green, gold, and silver. Accent your favorite pieces with a bit of sparkle and multi-colored fairy lights.
NAUTICAL : An easy, breezy, changes-in-latitude attitude of wintery whites, cozy blues, and beach grass fronds tied with festive wired ribbon, anchored by a flocked tree. Think snowflakes, plush fabrics, color and theme-coordinated pillows, and fluffy rugs.
RUSTIC / FARMHOUSE : Look to bring the outside in. Use pine boughs from trimming your live tree to create wreaths, swags, and garlands, or add a touch of nature to existing silk arrangements and mantel décor. Accent with holly branches, cedar garland, and pinecones laced through with white string lights. Further compliment the winter flora with the last of the fresh herbs from your garden. Rosemary, thyme, and sage make especially fragrant and visually appealing additions to centerpieces and mantel décor and can be used in your holiday cooking. Think buffalo plaid, sleighs, reindeer and yule logs.
VINTAGE : Harken back to days past with old-fashioned blown glass ornaments, ceramic Christmas trees, nutcracker collections, kitschy Santas, large multi-colored bulbs, old-timey scripts and scrolls on throw pillow covers, and thrift store treasures.
Regardless of your aesthetic, the holidays are about family and love. String cards from family and friends across the mantel, down the staircase, or wrapped around a column. Add mistletoe in a doorway or two and accent your spaces with candles clustered on shelves, the mantel, and credenza to create a cozy atmosphere where everyone will want to come together.
Happy Holidays!
HOLIDAY 2023 ~ Gift Guide
HOLIDAY • 2023 • Gift Guide
Something for him, her and them to fill your shopping list.
FOR HER
• Unveil the movie buff in her with this 100 movies scratch-off bucket list book. A perfect gift to elevate her movie nights! uncommongoods.com
• Story Book DIY Kit – Nurture her imagination as she crafts personalized tales and unfolds magical adventures, making every story time an enchanting experience! uncommongoods.com
• Stay hydrated in style with Stanley’s iconic water bottle – the perfect blend of durability and performance for on-the-go hydration. Find them at the nearest Dicks Sporting Goods, Target, on Amazon, etc.
• Experience the soothing touch of deep pressure stimulation, promoting a restful night’s sleep and relaxation. Embrace warmth and serenity wrapped in this stylish yet calming knit blanket. amazon.com
• Capture memories in style with the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro Digital Camera. Combine nostalgic charm with modern technology as you snap, print, and share your adventures instantly. amazon.com
• Elevate her culinary experience with the timeless and versatile KitchenAid Mixer, a perfect gift that combines style and functionality. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned chefs, this iconic appliance not only adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen but also offers unmatched performance in mixing, kneading, and whipping. Available for purchase on KitchenAid and Amazon, or in stores like Target and Walmart.
• Coming in a number of different styles, Ugg slippers are perfect for indoor or outdoor wear and will have her feeling chic and cozy this winter! ugg.com
• Starbucks Tumbler – Make sure she has her morning cup of joe in style this holiday season! Pick up a tumbler from this year’s holiday collection at your local Starbucks.
FOR HIM
• Take your golf game indoors with this premium putting mat, perfect for practicing your technique and improving your putt from the comfort of your own home. mancrates.com
• Elevate the whiskey aficionado’s experience with this meticulously curated crate, featuring top-shelf spirits, tasting glasses, and essential accessories for an enjoyable whiskey appreciation journey. mancrates.com
• Dive into the rich legacy of the sport with the personalized New York Times Custom Football Book, featuring a collection of iconic moments and headlines, offering a nostalgia journey through the game’s defining moments. uncommongoods.com
• Your personal on the go masseuse! Customize your therapy and soothe aching muscles with adjustable speeds and interchangeable heads. You can get them from Amazon, Walmart, Target, etc.
• From outdoor adventures to worksite breaks, Carhartts deluxe compartment insulated cooler is the perfect companion for chilled goodies on-the-go! amazon.com
• Unleash your inner chef with an outdoor pizza oven – transform your backyard into a pizzeria and indulge in your perfectly cooked pizzas! Find them on Amazon, best buy, etc.
• For guys on the go, all notifications sent straight to your wrist. The Apple Watch also tracks workouts and fitness goals, helpful for gym resolutions! apple.com
• Carhartt Beanies are not only trendy, but functional, too! Keep his head warm this winter with this simple yet stylish hat. amazon.com
FOR US
• Capture love’s essence with uncommon goods intersection of love photo print – a timeless tribute to cherished relationships. uncommongoods.com
• Adventure Challenge Scrapbook -Document every exciting expedition and create lasting memories with a personalized touch. Let the adventure begin on every page! uncommongoods.com
• Unwrap the gift of adventure and discovery with a memorable trip. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway or an exciting new destination, this gift offers the joy of creating lifelong memories together.
• Family Pictures – Gift the joy of cherished moments with a professional photoshoot. Capture love, laughter, and togetherness in beautiful images to adorn their walls and create lasting memories.
• Elevate their daily brew with the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System, a gift that combines innovation with the art of coffee-making. This versatile and efficient appliance is designed to turn their kitchen into a personalized coffee bar, offering a range of brewing options and customizable settings.
• Gift them the joy of a timeless musical experience with the Victrola. This elegant and nostalgic device not only adds a touch of vintage charm to their space but also allows them to rediscover the rich, warm sound of vinyl records.
STOCKING STUFFERS • Never lose your essentials again with Apple AirTags – The perfect compact stocking stuffer for the tech-savvy and forgetful! amazon.com • Indulge in luxurious beauty sleep with the Fisher Finery Silk Pillowcase – a silky delight for hair and skin. amazon.com • Add a touch of elegance to your desk with Bruiefpap Golf Pens – a hole-in-one gift for golf enthusiasts! amazon.com • Elevate their skincare routine with the gift of radiant skin in a stocking—Paula’s Choice exfoliant offers a perfect blend of effectiveness and luxury for a pampering and glowing complexion • Transform their nightly routine with the indulgent Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, a perfect stocking stuffer that pampers and nourishes lips, leaving them soft and supple all day long • Upgrade their daily dental care with the Burst Toothbrush—a sleek and efficient stocking stuffer that delivers a powerful clean, making every smile brighter and oral care routine more delightful • Native Deodorant combines effective odor protection, natural ingredients, and a variety of delightful scents for a refreshing and enjoyable daily experience.
A Toast to the Holiday Season
It’s time to toast to the holiday season
with a glass of something festive in hand. Whether it is decorating your Christmas tree, hosting a holiday party, or just hanging with friends and family, there is nothing better to get in the holiday spirit than celebrating with a good cocktail or mocktail.
When it comes down to creating the perfect drink, think simplicity, flavor and garnishing. I have created two recipes below that can be both enjoyed at any age as a mocktail or cocktail (over 21 years of age).
INGREDIENTS : 10 oz. sparkling water or seltzer* • Splash of cranberry juice
ICE CUBES : Add cranberries to ice tray, add water, and freeze overnight
GARNISH : Thyme, rosemary stems, or even candy canes!
INSTRUCTIONS : Add 3-4 cranberry ice cubes to a glass. • Combine the sparkling water* with a splash of cranberry juice. • Garnish with thyme or rosemary. Enjoy!
*For cocktail, substitute sparkling water or seltzer with Prosecco or champagne
INGREDIENTS :1 oz. Bailey’s cream liqueur • 2 oz. Vodka • Ice • 2 oz. Milk of Choice • 1 tbsp. hot chocolate powder or chocolate syrup
RIM : Chocolate syrup & crushed graham crackers
GARNISH : Marshmallows, torched
INSTRUCTIONS : Pour Bailey’s, vodka, milk, and chocolate into shaker with ice. Pour Cocktail over ice in a clear glass or mug.
Pour chocolate syrup in a circle on plate the same size as your glass, then dip rim into chocolate syrup. Add the crushed graham crackers to the rim. Garnish with torched marshmallows. Can also add whipped cream or shaved chocolate pieces.
*To make this a mocktail, make chocolate milk and decorate the rim and garnish the same way.
Gingerbread Dip
The dip is best if chilled overnight and served the next day.
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED :
- 1 package 8-ounce brick cream cheese (softened)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
TOPPING :
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
HERE IS HOW YOU DO IT :
Using a hand-mixer, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, add in sugars, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Beat well. Chill for one hour before serving. Just before serving, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top. Serve with fresh fruit or cookies.
Ugly Sweaters
Holiday season in the Northeast can be brutally cold. Snow, wind, below freezing temperatures, oh my! Looking nice and put-together in tights can be too much of an ask when the weather app is showing an image of an icicle. Instead of your outfit being cute, but exposing you to the cold, commit to comfort and wear an ugly sweater.
A time-honored tradition of looking bizarre and getting made fun of, the ugly sweater makes an appearance every holiday season. Applicable to Christmas and Chanukah, or the overarching winter season, ugly sweaters are easily identifiable for being hideous, but warm. Notorious for their chunky fit and crazy knits, ugly sweaters have become increasingly identifiable since the 1980s, appearing in movies and TV shows as cultural short-hand for a character being fashion-ignorant. The rise of social media has taken ugly sweaters from a kitch trend and turned them into a staple of the holiday season.
Ugly sweater parties are common, especially at this time of year. If you happen to be without, here are some ideas. Brands like Forever 21, H&M, and Zara all sell various ugly sweaters. You can find turtlenecks with massive reindeer embossed onto the front, or boatnecks with literal tassels hanging off the sleeves. Should you be less comfortable embracing the “ugly” side of ugly sweaters, there are definitely more tasteful options available. Try a knitted winter scene, or an abstract pattern that alludes to festive animals.
If you are looking for this sweater to be an investment piece, try thrifting from a classic brand. Pendleton sweaters, specially from the 90s, often have elaborate patterns embroidered on. Vintage L.L. Bean is always great quality and often looks as though it walked straight off the set of an 80s Christmas rom-com. Pringle of Scotland is another stunner brand. While most of their sweaters tend towards heavy knit fishermen styles, they did make lines that featured men golfing, or fishing, embroidered onto the chest of the sweater. If you want to buy a sweater you will wear outside of November and December, Pringle might be the best bet.
There is a lot to be excited about during the holiday season. Snow, if you do not subscribe to the beach cult, seeing friends and family, the actual holidays. Getting cozy in an ugly sweater eliminates the stress of planning out an outfit meant to stun, the sweater is the outfit. Throw on a pair of comfortable trousers and a big coat with a scarf, and that’s it, you have a festive look. You no longer need to schedule in an hour of getting ready to pick something from the closet and get dressed. Just pull on your trusty ugly sweater and you are ready to go!
Get Creative with Delicious, Decorative Cookies
A decadent holiday meal isn’t complete without a sweet dessert to cap off the evening. These Ornament Cookies can be shaped any way you like to celebrate the holidays. The royal icing adorning these festive favorites is made with powdered sugar and meringue powder; just use food coloring to add a personal touch.
For more than 120 years, Domino Sugar has helped millions bake special recipes like these cookies made with non-GMO, vegan, kosher and gluten-free Golden Sugar that’s free flowing and easy to scoop, spoon and pour. The sugar retains a hint of molasses flavor, giving it a golden color and providing a perfect way to add less processed sweetness to your loved ones’ favorite desserts. Find holiday recipes, baking tips and more at dominosugar.com.
ORNAMENT COOKIES
Prep time: 25 minutes plus 1 hour to decorate ~ Cook time: 20 minutes ~ Yield: 2 dozen cookies
COOKIES :
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
ROYAL ICING :
- 4 cups Domino Powdered Sugar
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 1/3 cup, plus 2-3 tablespoons, warm water, divided desired food coloring
To prepare cookies : In large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg; beat until well combined. Scrape sides of bowl as needed. Add flour and salt; beat until just combined.
Dump mixture onto lightly floured surface and divide in half. Shape each half into disks and wrap with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Working on lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/2-inch thick. Cut cookies using ornament-shaped cookie cutter. Place cookies on prepared pans and bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature.
To make royal icing : In large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and 1/3 cup water. Beat on low speed until combined. Increase speed to medium-high and beat 8-10 minutes, adding 2-3 tablespoons warm water, as necessary. Icing should be stiff enough to hold peak when tested.
Color royal icing with food coloring and decorate cookies.
Source: Family Features #16794.
Holiday Happenings
Jones Beach Light Show
$35 each vehicle
November 17th – December 30th, 2023
Sun – Thur: 5:00 -10:00 pm | Fri – Sat: 5:00 -11:00 pm
Celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Jones Beach Holiday Light Show. Immerse yourself in the dazzling display of festive lights and scenes and create cherished memories with friends and family at Jones Beach this holiday season!
Waterdrinker Winter Wonderland
November 17th – December 23rd, 2023
663 Wading River Road, Manorville
This enchanting event transforms Waterdrinker Family Farm into a winter paradise, featuring light displays, ice skating, fire pits and smores, a gingerbread village, and so many more fun activities. Enjoy holiday music and revel in the holiday spirit!
NYBG Glow
December 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 26–30, 2023; January 6 & 13, 2024
5–10 p.m. | At the Garden
A spectacular winter wonderland at New York Botanical Garden where the beauty of nature combines with the magic of the holiday season. The garden will be illuminated with mesmerizing lights creating a breathtaking display of colors. Light bites and drinks will be available for purchase at one of NYGB’s outdoor bars or the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up.
Menorah Lighting
Raynor Park ~ 174 Ronkonkoma ave, Lake Ronkonkoma
December 7th at 7:00 pm
Gather with the community at Raynor Park in Ronkonkoma for a cherished tradition – The Menorah Lighting. Share in the festive atmosphere, join in on songs and celebrate the season with your neighbors and friends in the heart of Ronkonkoma.
Menorah Lighting
December 7th at 6:00 pm
Sayville Chamber House (Corner of Lincoln Ave. & Main Street) Candle Lit Prayers, Music, Hanukkah Gelt & Potato Latkes! Open to the whole community! Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the season, savor the delicious flavors of Hanukkah gelt and potato latkes, and share in the communal spirit of this special event!
Breakfast with Santa @ The Milleridge Inn
Saturdays & Sundays Through Dec. 23rd, 2023
Reservations required | Call 516-931-2201
Bring the family for a morning filled with festive cheer as children and adults alike enjoy a delicious breakfast in this enchanting atmosphere. Meet Santa Claus, share your holiday wishes, and take advantage of the photo ops!
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000.