Northport October 2023
East Northport October 2023
Dix Hills October 2023
Commack October 2023
Scary Sweet Cemetery
Recipe courtesy of MilkPEP ~ Servings: 6
When it comes to family fun, it’s hard to beat Halloween, and with all the candy flying around, it’s an opportunity to add something nutritious and delicious to festive celebrations. Chocolate milk can provide the best of both worlds. It satisfies kids’ sweet tooth while providing all the nutrients of classic white milk, like calcium, vitamin D and high-quality protein to help keep little skeletons strong, making it a Halloween hit for kids and parents alike. Carve out some quality time to make memories during the eeriest time of the year with this Scary Sweet Cemetery – including chocolate pudding, gummy worms and sandwich cookies – to get kids cooking and crafting, all while nourishing their bodies and bones with nutritious chocolate milk. Visit MilkLife.com for more kid-friendly, DIY Halloween treats.
PUDDING :
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cups cold chocolate milk
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 large egg
- 4 ounces chopped semisweet chocolate (about 3/4 cup)
- 10 ounces chocolate vanilla sandwich cookies (about 20 cookies)
- 12 gummy worms
- In large saucepan over high heat, stir cocoa powder, cornstarch, chocolate milk and salt to incorporate dry ingredients into milk. Cook until mixture starts to boil then reduce heat to simmer until mixture starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- In large bowl, using whisk, beat egg, slowly drizzling hot chocolate mixture into bowl, whisking continuously. Fold in chopped chocolateand stir until chocolate has completely melted.
- Pour pudding mixture into glass baking dish. Place piece of parchment paper on top of surface of pudding. Chill in refrigerator 3 hours, or overnight.
- To prepare “dirt,” place chocolate vanilla sandwich cookies in large re-sealable bag. Using rolling pin, crush cookies into crumbs.
- When ready to serve, sprinkle cookie crumbs over pudding and place gummy worms on cookie crumb layer, making sure to “bury” parts of gummy worm ends as if worms are coming out of dirt.
Nutritional information per serving: 460 calories; 18 g fat; 8 g saturated fat; 35 mg cholesterol; 6 g protein; 75 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 250 mg sodium; 104 mg calcium. Nutrition figures based on using low-fat chocolate milk. #14955 Source: MilkPEP
DIY Halloween Costumes
Autumn is arguably the busiest time of the year, with school picking back up, various holidays rolling around, and the weather undergoing rapid change. While Halloween is a beloved festivity, actually picking out and acquiring a costume often falls to the backburner. Every year, you will hear friends, if not yourself, bemoaning the poor costume selection just two days before Halloween weekend. Should you find yourself remembering last minute that you need a costume this year, here is a list of easy, DIY costumes and outfits to help you maintain that festive, spooky look.
There are two classic, last minute Halloween costumes: the cat and the witch. Let neither gender nor age stop you from donning a pair of cat ears or a pointed hat; anyone can cobble together these costumes. On the day of, you can still find a pair of fluffy or bedazzled cat ears at Party City, or, if you cannot make it to the store, you can make a pair. Two cardboard triangles precariously painted and glued to a headband and VOILA! You can now, with reasonable plausibility, declare your costume this year is a cat.
A pointed hat might require an actual trip to Michaels. If this Halloween is a cold one, your witch robes can be your bathrobe. There is no reason your costume has to be uncomfortable! Or, give the little black dress in the back of your closet a second purpose. Congratulations, you are a witch.
Dressing up as a favorite character from one of the many shows released since last Halloween is another fun, DIY route. If you have a long, blonde wig, you can declare yourself a Targaryen. If you own anything black and pinstriped, and possess a willingness to do two braids, you are officially Wednesday Addams. Remembering Halloween is happening sooner than a week out, you should be able to find various items and props to better flesh out the costume. For example, if you do have a blonde wig, maybe start hunting for a medieval style dress or knight’s armor to really sell the high fantasy look.
While digging in your closet, perhaps you found a pair of cowboy boots you had convinced yourself you would wear. One night is not wearing an item a lot, but it is better than never. A cowboy hat, a brightly colored button up, and you are ready to go. A cow boy or girl for one night only!
Halloween is meant to be a fun night, regardless of the level of effort put into your costume. Life is busy, and actually finding a costume can be unnecessarily stressful. Relax, and double check your closet for possible ideas. If finding a costume is too much this year, buy one of those sweatshirts that say costume on the front. Dress up, dress down, just make sure you eat a lot of candy. It is the only way to celebrate.
Apple Cobbler
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED AND HOW TO DO IT :
FILLING :
- 3 large apples (Granny Smith) but any apples will do!
- 2 tablespoons water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛teaspoon salt
TOPPING :
- ⅔ cup flour
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cinnamon Sugar = 1 tablespoon sugar + ½ teaspoon cinnamon for topping
HERE IS HOW YOU DO IT :
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Grease a 9-inch round or square pan, set aside.
- Peel, core, and chop apples into ¼ to ½ inch slices.
- In a large bowl combine: brown sugar, water, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Add in apples and toss to coat. Pour into the prepared pan. Rinse and wipe out the bowl and reuse for the topping.
- Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, butter, and vanilla, and mix until combined.
- Pour batter over the apple mixture, spreading it evenly; sprinkle the top with prepared Cinnamon Sugar.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes and cool in the pan for 20 minutes before serving – this is a good time to get your whipped cream ready. Scoop and serve warm. Store any remaining cobbler in the fridge. Keep uncovered until it is below 41 degrees, then cover with plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days and freeze for 1 month.
WHIPPED CREAM :Prep and mixing time:Approximately 5 minutes – using a stand mixer-(may take a few minutes longer with a hand mixer)
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED AND HOW TO DO IT :
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
In a large bowl, whip cream with an electric mixer on low speed until cream doubles in size (this will take about 5 minutes). Then increase speed until the mixture forms soft peaks. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla increase speed to high until stiff peaks form.
Helpful Hints : It’s always best to use a chilled metal bowl when making whipped cream. So, place your bowl in the refrigerator a few hours before you use it.Make sure your bowl is completely dry before adding ingredients.Do not over mix. Whipped cream will become clumpy if over-mixed.
10 Mood Boosting Foods to Support Everyday Health
Maintaining a healthy mood is an essential aspect of overall wellness. While there are various contributing factors, our diet can play a significant role. Nutrient-dense foods provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals to function optimally, and each bite we take can positively impact our well-being. Incorporating mood boosting foods into your diet is a proactive step toward supporting overall health and a balanced mood. In this exploration of mood boosting foods, we delve into the science behind how specific nutrients, vitamins, and minerals interact with our brain chemistry to support emotional well-being.
- BONE BROTH : A positive mood starts with a healthy gut. Approximately 90% of serotonin is produced in the digestive tract, making balanced gut health essential for emotional well-being. Bone broth is rich in nutrients such as collagen, gelatin, minerals, and amino acids. Various amino acids are found in bone broth, particularly glycine, which acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, calming the central nervous system and promoting relaxation. Collagen is a prominent component, containing amino acids such as proline and hydroxyproline, which may help to support the body’s stress respon. For the most nutrient-dense bone broth, try making it yourself at home with various organic and grass-fed bones. Add chicken feet to make an extra collagen-rich broth that can support your health, mood, and beauty.
- SALMON : Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy brain function. The omega-3s found in foods such as fatty fish help regulate neurotransmitters supporting a positive mood. The human brain is composed of 60% fat; consuming adequate amounts is essential for a healthy mood. The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, especially DHA, help maintain brain health and play a role in synthesizing serotonin, necessary for emotional stability. The omega-3s in salmon also have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation, especially in the brain, can contribute to mood disorders. Regularly consuming nutrient-dense foods like salmon is a fantastic way to support a healthy mood.
- RED BELL PEPPERS : Red bell peppers are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health and overall well-being. This brightly-hued pepper contains high amounts of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that is crucial to brain health, protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Red bell peppers also contain folate, a B vitamin necessary for mood regulation. Folate plays a role in the synthesis of serotonin and dopamine. Red bell peppers are also an excellent water-rich food that hydrate the body to support a healthy mood and energy levels.
- DARK CHOCOLATE : Besides being incredibly delicious, dark chocolate is an excellent food that supports a healthy mood. Cocoa is a source of magnesium, a mineral that regulates mood. Dark cholate is also rich in phenylethylamine, a compound that can promote feelings of pleasure and happiness. It’s a tasty treat that supports health and a positive mood; however, quality matters and it should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content (minimum of 70%) to minimize added sugars.
- YOGURT : Yogurt is a natural source of probiotics – beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. Yogurt contains protein which is essential for neurotransmitter production. Yogurt is also a good source of calcium and magnesium, which are minerals that support a balanced mood. It is essential to choose unsweetened yogurt – many yogurts contain a lot of sugar, which can negatively impact gut health and mood. Instead, use fresh fruit as a sweetener. Another great option is kefir which may contain a higher concentration of probiotics.
- EGGS : Eggs are an excellent source of quality protein and healthy fats. Regularly consuming eggs provides the body with choline, an essential nutrient for optimal brain health. Egg yolks are one of the best sources of choline, a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that supports mood, memory, and cognitive functioning. Eggs are also an excellent source of B vitamins and a natural source of vitamin D, which play a role in regulating mood.
- WALNUTS : Walnuts are rich in protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats that support brain health. They make an excellent plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3s also supports cognition and can promote well-being. Walnuts are a rich source of antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect brain health from inflammation and oxidative stress. They are also a good source of the amino acid tryptophan, known as the “feel good” neurotransmitter. Walnuts make an excellent snack, providing the body with fiber, protein, and healthy fats to support satiety and a positive mood. The best option is to choose organic nuts.
- TURMERIC : Turmeric is rich in curcumin, which is well known for its positive influence on brain health and emotional well-being. Curcumin is anti-inflammatory and can reduce inflammation throughout the body, which may contribute to a more balanced and positive mood. Curcumin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and damage. Turmeric can be added to foods to provide flavor and support a positive mood. Combining it with black pepper may increase its absorbability. It can also be taken as a supplement, however you should consult your doctor before incorporating any new supplement into your daily routine.
- DARK LEAFY GREENS : Dark leafy greens are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet due to their rich nutrient profile of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other compounds that support brain health and emotional well-being. Many dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins A, C, and K and antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein. These compounds protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to brain health and a balanced mood. Dark leafy greens contain fiber to support the gut microbiome and diverse nutrients for overall health and well-being.
- LENTILS : Lentils are an excellent plant-based source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support brain health and a balanced mood. Lentils are a source of complex carbohydrates that provide a steady release of energy. Stable blood sugar levels can help prevent mood swings and promote balanced emotions. They are also rich in dietary fiber to support gut health and B vitamins for neurotransmitter production. Lentils contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin production, promoting emotional well-being. Lentils also contain potassium and magnesium which support relaxation and mood regulation. Lentils are perfect in stews, salads, soups, and as a side dish.
CONCLUSION : Incorporating these healthy foods into your diet can improve everyday health and a positive mood. It is crucial to remember that bio-individuality plays an essential role in overall health and wellness, and only you know which foods are best for you. Remember to consume a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods and incorporate plenty of movement into your daily routine as the best approach for supporting your mood naturally. Healthy food has the potential to transform how we look and feel, and making your health a priority will have a positive influence on your well-being. You are in the driver’s seat of your wellness journey, and food can be a powerful driver.
The Falling Leaves Drift By The Window
. . . and so it is time to celebrate one of my favorite seasons of all: autumn! The incomparable Nat King Cole sang it best, and all the beauty and wonder of this glorious season is quickly getting underway! Already, there are countless fall and Halloween-themed decorations in gift shops, craft stores, nurseries and garden centers. The occasional cool, dry breezes are beginning to infiltrate the hot, humid days of summer, and the creative juices are flowing, with all sorts of ideas to keep your home and your spirits in good stead. A perfect place to start is in your garden. Beautiful, multicolored Mums, Aster and Celosia plants, are in full bloom, just waiting for a prime spot. They bring striking colors like orange, yellow, red and purple, and will add interest, dimension and texture to your landscape design. Add any number of outdoor autumnal and holiday decorations, and even some garden lights and flags, and you will have a unique and lovely display to last well into Thanksgiving. Your front door and entryway are another focal point you won’t want to forget! A beautiful seasonal wreath on your door makes an attractive and welcoming statement. Depending upon your space, you can also incorporate another display, such as a cornstalk and hay bale, some flowers, pumpkins and gourds, a scarecrow or other fall decorations. As for indoor decor, there are a plethora of ideas and options to garner and envelop yourself in the warmth of the season. Decorative window clings are always a fun and easy way to bring some color and interest to your front storm door or kitchen windows, as is your child’s seasonal artwork, displayed in a place of honor. Candles of all sorts, (both with burning wicks and flameless), in varying autumnal scents and colors, can be placed throughout your home, along with aromatic potpourri and twinkle lights, to create an enchanting atmosphere. Your home can be further enhanced with decorative touches, like holiday figurines, wreaths, pillows, throws and other seasonal items, making it feel warm, welcoming and inviting. Don’t forget to include seasonal or holiday tableware, such as dishes, serving platters, cookie jars and table linens. All these special touches will bring great joy, as you open your home to family, friends and guests throughout the season. Making some simple yet impactful design choices can truly heighten your experience, at this time of year. Let your taste and your imagination guide you, and remember that your home is an extension of yourself! Make it feel as happy and comfortable as you feel in celebrating this wonderful season, and enjoy every moment, friends!
Vicinato Kitchen & Bar
New to the Hauppauge area is a restaurant whose name signifies a place where friends and family gather in the neighborhood for memorable times around the dinner table. An inspiration that has set the tone for the kind of menu that Vicinato has created, filled with authentic and original Italian dishes.
The executive Chef Mario Maligieri, who migrated from Naples, Italy is responsible for the unique creations found at Vicinato Kitchen and Bar.
Formerly known as Gusto Osteria, Vicinato is now under new management. As explained to me by the general manager, their mission is to maintain the highest quality ingredients while creating the most delicious food for their guests in a casual, yet upscale setting.
Vicinato’s wine selection is impressive, highlighting some of the finest wines this side of Tuscany. Speaking of grapes, what goes better with your vino than their artfully crafted Italian Board; an assortment of Italian cured meats and cheeses with fig jam, olives, fruits, and nuts. Pick a little, sip a little. A wonderful starter to share.
A clever take on eggplant parm was the Parmigiani Di Zucchini; presented in a crock, thinly sliced, lightly breaded zucchini in a pomodoro sauce with small bite size pieces of mozzarella was incredibly flavorful. My only critique is that it is so delicious it should be an entree. Problem solved. Next time, order two!
After hearing so much about Chef Mario’s pasta, we had to go in before getting our entrees. Closest to his heart is his Casarecce Norma. Freshly made rigatoni pasta, mixed with eggplant, chopped tomato, and garlic, then finished off with grated ricotta in a light tomato sauce. An old-world rustic dish that chef Mario is most proud of, and it shows. Delizioso!
For our mains we shared a few dishes. The Vitello Settecolli (Scaloppini) is not something I typically order, but our server was so enthusiastic about it that we decided to try it. Thinly sliced, delicate medallions of veal seemed to melt in my mouth. Presented with artichokes, mushrooms and prosciutto in a white wine was light and not overwhelming. Accompanied by a side of lightly seasoned mashed potatoes, the chef allows the true flavors of the veal to come through.
I have never had Arctic Char before, but since I am a salmon lover, we tried their Salmerino Alpino. Pan seared, lemon, capers, spinach, and fingerling potatoes were packed with flavor. A firm and sweet tasting fish I highly recommend. Accompany with sides of their trio mushrooms and asparagus and you are all set.
A must try is their Deconstructed Cannoli – Broken cannoli shells lay atop the creamiest and most decadent cannoli cream you could dream of. Laced with micro-size apricot slices then finished with powdered sugar. Heaven in a plate.
Vicinato is a feel-good place. Its open floor concept with a private dining section makes for a perfect setting for an intimate dining experience.
Salon Bobby D’s
900 Wheeler Road • Hauppauge 631-366-3988
Salon Bobby D’s has been a proud staple in Hauppauge for over 30 years, now with a new home in the Atrium Plaza on Wheeler Road. After Covid and renovations in a new space, the salon has officially reopened and is eager to see new and returning customers.
Founded by husband-and-wife duo Bob (Bobby), and Dawn (Dee), the salon truly is a family endeavor. Many staff members have been with Bobby D’s from the beginning, and now Bob and Dawn’s daughter is a member of the team, too. On opening day of the new salon, many veteran staff members that worked at Bobby D’s throughout the years returned to lend a hand and show support.
It’s not just the staff that are like family – it’s the customers, too, which Dawn says makes the job worthwhile. Some clients sat in Bobby D’s chairs as children, and now bring their own little ones for haircuts. Earning loyalty from families and seeing them grow throughout the years while Dawn and Bob’s own family has grown has been the most rewarding experience of operating in the Hauppauge area for so many years.
Customer reviews can’t rave enough about Bobby D’s staff and services. Compliments pour in about the beautiful new space, the relationships with staff, and satisfaction with finished products, ranging from the last few months to the past 20 years. According to Dawn, the secret to keeping customers coming back over so many years is treating customers with respect, like she would treat family and friends, and maintaining a positive environment.
The services Bobby D’s offers have evolved throughout the years. The salon has the whole family covered with services for men, women, and kids. From blowouts to balayage, Bobby D’s has experienced stylists and colorists to take care of all your hair needs. They also have an ongoing buy 2 get 1 free offer on all hair products that they carry in-store, including Olaplex, It’s a 10, and more.
Dawn would like to thank the salon’s clients, and especially Nails by Rose & Co. for their generosity, loyalty, and support throughout the pandemic and renovations. For three years, Rose & Co. allowed Bobby D’s to use their space, essentially saving the salon, which Dawn could not be more grateful for. As they anticipate celebrating their anniversary throughout the month of January, Bobby D’s is thrilled to have their doors open to the Hauppauge community again. Trust Salon Bobby D’s for your beauty needs and a team that feels like family – because they are!
Stop by the new salon at 900 Wheeler Road, or call (631) 366-3988.
Rockin’ Pretty Stylz Beauty Bar
136 W. Jericho Tpke. (just west of Rt. 110) • Huntington • 631-388-1032 • rps.beauty
If there’s one thing Yolanda Smart knows, it’s HAIR! And Rockin’ Pretty Stylz in Huntington is her latest stop on her hair journey. Yolanda grew up in Jersey City in a family of hair stylists, going on to pursue the family tradition at beauty school. She graduated in 2006, just as she was starting her own family. After splitting her time between Queens and Long Island for several years, Yolanda and her family made the move to Melville, and have been in the area ever since.
With years’ worth of experience working in salons, Yolanda decided she wanted to be her own boss. She networked through local beauty supply stores working from her home-based studio. Last year, she came across an opportunity to lease her own space and decided to go all-in, opening her salon doors in Huntington in November of last year.
Throughout her career, Yolanda has acquired many skills that led to her success and stunning reputation among her clients. She is fully certified in leading extension brands such as Perfectress, Lasio keratin treatments, lashes, waxing, braiding, and is a wig maker. Yolanda is also proficient at styling hair for kids and is adept at all hair types and textures.
In addition to stellar online reviews, clients were happy to sing their praises during ET’s conversation with Yolanda. Many clients have followed her over the years from salons to her home studio, and now to the her own place in Huntington. Jen, who has been a client of Yolanda’s for years, says that she sticks with her because of her talent. She pays attention to detail, is passionate, resilient, and loyal to her customers, and understands that the look and feel of our hair matters. Rockin’ Pretty Stylz also stands out as one of few salons on Long Island that is certified to own and operate an aquatic misting machine, which is customizable to use for hair hydration, color, detox, and stimulate growth.
When asked what the best part about operating a business in the Huntington area, Yolanda says it’s the diversity in the community. She wants readers to know that she understands hair from all different cultures and backgrounds and is more than happy to teach moms of mixed-race children how to care for their hair. Yolanda is the definition of a hair expert, committed to making visions come to life.
Between her talents with hair and the care she has for her clients, Yolanda offers an unforgettable beauty experience. Call (631) 388-1032 to book your appointments at Rockin’ Pretty Stylz in Huntington, and stay tuned for news on their upcoming first anniversary celebration!
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000.