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Baking Coach: Delicious Hamburger Cupcakes and French Fry Cookies

French Fry Cookies

Prep Time: 20 min Servings: approximately 2 dozen


YOU WILL NEED :


  • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

*Additional granulated sugar is needed for garnish


HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :


  1. In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract mix with a rubber spatula until combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well-blended.
  3. Wrap dough in plastic wrap . Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours or place in the freezer for 20 minutes until the dough is firm enough to handle.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  5. On a lightly floured surface, roll the cookie dough out into a large rectangle keeping the dough 1/4th inch thick.
  6. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into strips to look like French fries and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet, covered with parchment paper.
  7. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the bottoms are lightly browned.
  8. Remove the cookies from the sheet and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cooled, glaze the tops of the strips with the sugar glaze, then immediately sprinkle with additional granulated sugar for a slightly salted effect.

For the Glaze:
(Reserve 2 tablespoons for topping your hamburger buns with sprinkles)

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons water (to reach a honey consistency) 

Mix together until smooth.


Hamburger Cupcakes


YOU WILL NEED :


  • 1 can vanilla frosting
  • 1 vanilla cake mix
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • Green and red food dye
  • Freezer-grade storage bag or a pastry bag
  • 2 tablespoons sugar glaze
  • 2 tablespoons white sprinkles or granulated sugar.

HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :


  1. Follow the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare the cupcakes, making 16 vanilla cupcakes by filling the cupcake liner ½ way with batter. reserving the remaining batter.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the remaining batter. If the batter is too thick, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water to thin it out.
  3. Pour the chocolate batter into the remaining 8 cupcake liners.You will need half of a chocolate cupcake for each vanilla cupcake.
  4. Fill 2 pastry bags(freezer grade plastic bag) one with green and the other with red frosting. 
  5. Slice a vanilla cupcake in half to make a bun, then slice a chocolate cupcake for the patty. Starting with the vanilla cupcake bottom, squeeze a small amount of green frosting
    on top, then top the green frosting with a slice of the chocolate cupcake. Top that with a squeeze of red butter cream and then place the top of the vanilla cupcake on top to make the Hamburger. Finish it off by cover the top of the Hamburger with a tiny amount of sugar glaze and white sprinkles or granulated sugar. 

Watch the video for assembly instructions:



Thermography: Save Your Cells with Radiation-Free Testing

Toxins are a major health crisis that are on the rise.  Where are these toxins lurking?  I try my best to understand and provide awareness about toxic exposure.  They are tricky as most of them are invisible toxins.  Either they are invisible to the naked eye or they are mixed into our food, water or environment which includes radiation exposure.  Toxins are terrible and detrimental to our health.

Let’s discuss options we use for screening our body and electronics we use in daily life that may have harmful radiation.  There are two different forms of radiation:  ionizing and non-ionizing.  Ionizing radiation can damage DNA, cause cellular mutations and is considered dangerous to living organisms.  Ionizing radiation is high energy radiation that can ionize matter and knock electrons out of atoms.  Non-ionizing radiation has lower energy, only causes atoms to vibrate or rotate and can heat up substances.  Ionizing radiation includes x-rays while non-ionizing radiation includes visible light, radiowaves, cellphones, and microwaves.

Mammograms use x-ray beams which are a form of ionizing radiation.  Good news though -there is another option for radiation-free imaging of your breast and your entire body.  Avoid exposure to an invisible toxin in the first place with THERMOGRAPHY.

Thermography is a non-invasive body screening method that uses a medical infrared camera which detects and analyzes all of the thermal patterns in one’s body.  It is 100% safe, radiation free and painless.  Ultrasound and mammography test anatomy to detect structure while thermography tests physiology.  Thermography is FDA cleared as an adjunctive screening method to aid in breast cancer.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, preventative care is key.  Thermography is a safe way to screen for areas of inflammation, early detection of pathologies and monitor abnormal physiology.  It is safe for all ages, pregnant women and males too.  By capturing the infrared heat emitted by the body’s surface, thermography shows abnormal heat patterns which is a crucial piece of early detection.  With this knowledge, patients can seek early intervention for various health conditions such as cancer risk factors, thyroid disorders, autoimmune disease, neuropathy, digestive issues, vascular disorders, and much more.

Testing allows us to know where the body needs support.  Natural treatments are effective when used as indicated.  Zero in on supporting your detox pathways including the liver, kidney and skin.  Lymphatic drainage may be indicated which supports your immune and cardiovascular systems.  Castor oil can be therapeutic by helping specific tissues with moving and strengthening.  Maybe you need a new bra with non-toxic material.  The information with proper testing is invaluable.

Remember that long standing inflammation is the root cause for most chronic diseases – including cancer.  Thermography is that option to help you identify inflammation at the cellular level in your tissues.  Take action naturally to give your body what your body needs.  You will get specific answers about your health.  Get a handle on your wellness years before illness travels deeper and may show up on labs.

Take a pro-active approach to your wellness with thermography.  Gain deeper insights into your body’s physiology and stay ahead of potential health concerns.  If you are interested in scheduling your appointment for thermography, it is offered at my clinic, Wellness Matters.  More information and booking is available at www.wellnessmatters.care

In Good Health,
Dr. Dawn Siglain ND, LAc

The Dirty Cheesecake: Sweet Chaos with Cheesecake on a Stick!

102 West Main Street, Smithtown – 631-780-5320
1160 Deer Park Ave. North Babylon – 631-392-1500

Website – Order online!

It’s official—”The Dirty Cheesecake” is taking Long Island by storm, having opened a second sweet spot in Suffolk County! After the smash success of their Times Square and North Babylon locations, owner Tarek Hassanin has expanded his family-run bakery to Smithtown, bringing his irresistible treats and heartwarming story to more dessert lovers. The big question on everyone’s mind: What’s a “Dirty Cheesecake?”  Well, that’s where the fun begins!

Tarek never set out to be the cheesecake king of New York, but when his daughter Layan (aka “Lili”) was just four years old, they started baking together every Sunday night. What began as a tender family ritual quickly blossomed into something much sweeter. “Layan always loved baking, and we started coming up with new recipes together,” Tarek recalls. What’s the result of all this fun? A full-fledged bakery business, of course.

Made by Lili’s Bakery in Times Square opened in 2016 to pay homage to his daughter, whose playful spirit and love for baking are at the heart of everything they do. Made by Lili’s became a hit with its scrumptious cheesecakes, cupcakes, cannolis, and cookies.  The best part?  They didn’t have any fancy baking degrees—just trial and error, a little help from YouTube, and a lot of heart. “We just Google it or watch YouTube and try it,” Tarek laughs. “Then we perfect it.”

Like many small businesses, the pandemic hit Made by Lili’s hard. Foot traffic dwindled and Tarek and Lili had to get creative. Enter the “Cheesecake on a Stick,” a genius invention that saved the day. Picture this: a wedge of creamy cheesecake, dipped in milk chocolate, and topped with everything from Nutella to Oreos to peanut butter. It was an instant sensation. At one point, they were cranking out up to 840 of these delicious sticks a day from their tiny 500-square-foot space. Instead of worrying, Tarek and his family leaned into the success, knowing they had something truly special on their hands. That’s when the idea to expand really started to take shape.

Tarek & Layan Hassanin

Now, “The Dirty Cheesecake” is bringing even more of their mouthwatering creations to Long Island. In addition to the famous cheesecake on a stick, their menu also includes edible cookie dough, jumbo stuffed cookies, creamy crème brûlée, mason jar cakes, and decadent layered brownie bars. But if you really want to try something that will make your taste buds dance, go for Lili’s Cheesecake—a gooey masterpiece of chocolate chip brownie, cheesecake, cookie dough, and Oreos, all drizzled in chocolate. Tarek confesses, “We can’t keep them in stock. That’s how popular they are.”

The decision to expand to North Babylon and Smithtown was deeply personal for Tarek. “I realized there was no place around town for great desserts and I wanted to change that,” Tarek explains. As a Long Island native, he wanted to offer the community a place to get high-quality treats that are both indulgent and fun. It’s also a safe place to come, hang out and grab a late-night snack within the community.

At the heart of “The Dirty Cheesecake” is, well, family. Layan, now a teenager, is Tarek’s right-hand baker, helping him out five days a week, especially in the summer and alongside her brothers. “She’s going to run this place long after I’m gone,” Tarek says proudly. It’s clear that the bakery’s success isn’t just about the delicious desserts—it’s about the love, creativity, and family teamwork that’s baked into every treat.

Looking to the future, Tarek has big dreams. “My goal is to open a new store every year.  We want to keep growing, but we’ll always be rooted in our family values and community spirit,” he says.

“The Dirty Cheesecake” is more than just a bakery—it’s a sweet, family-driven success story that shows how a little creativity, some hard work, and a whole lot of love can turn a family tradition into a thriving business. Whether you’re a Long Island local or just passing through, you won’t want to miss out on these irresistible desserts.

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to “The Dirty Cheesecake” at 102 W Main St, Smithtown, and treat yourself to a slice of this family’s sweet legacy.

Spring Fashion Accessories: Adding Flare to Your Wardrobe

Fashion trends each season give you a guideline of what to anticipate seeing in the stores and in what new styles you may expect to see people while out and about. The beauty of accessory trends, in my opinion, is the ability to take the current trends and make them a little more your own. Trends are fun and a great guide for updating your wardrobe each season, but my rule of thumb is to always choose styles that fit your body best.

New accessories for the season allow you to add a little pow to a simple outfit or take a nice ensemble and make it truly special. This spring’s accessories are often the star of the show, feature a statement piece [or two], and should offer you ample options to personalize your individual fashion style.

Gold…it is the color for the spring and summer this year. Whether you’ve chosen a metallic pair of shoes or a large, matte piece of jewelry, gold is having a true moment in 2025. Pair gold accessories with virtually any color to add some pop to your ensemble. For those hesitant to wear solid gold accessories, mixed metal options are also popular this season. Blended silver and gold bangles, rings, earrings and more will allow you to add a touch of gold without going all-in on the trend.

Many design finds fall in line with words that begin with the letter ‘B’…big, bold, and beachy.

Let’s break that down, shall we?

Big – jewelry, tote bags, wide headbands and even wider belts. When in doubt, choose a large option to fit in with this season’s looks.

Bold – the statement piece is having a true renaissance this season. So, when looking for just the right item, consider a piece that will unquestionably take your outfit from drab to dramatic. Bold hosiery is a popular option for spring. Bright, intense colors, appliqued options andintricate designs are all a hit for spring. If you’re a fan of hosiery making a statement versus enhancing the smoothness of your legs, this season’s trend is for you.

Beachy – much of what you will find this season has a beachy/ocean vibe. Jewelry with shells, fish, waves, and more can be found in bright gold or shades of ocean blue. Summer totes ar available in summer straw materials or even as woven fisherman bags.

Fashion sunglasses were seen on nearly every fashion week runway. From alien-like shapes to styles that harken back to the ‘70s, to Audrey Hepburn-esque shades, the key is to opt for extra-large lenses – a complete about face from last year’s narrow and
skinny sunglasses.

Handbags are a ‘mixed bag’ this season [apologies for the unavoidable bad joke]. From large, boho shoulder bags to east-west designs (small, rectangular bags with a short shoulder strap), designs go with either the 70s or ultra-feminine clothing styles that came down the runway. You’ll find fringe, handbags clip-ons, and buckles, among other accoutrements for spring 2025.

For this spring, select the accessories that let you put your best, most confident self forward. Not every look will be for you, nor do they need to be. Choose the ones you like most and welcome them into your wardrobe as they welcome
you to spring.

ET Recipe Of The Month: Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie

Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie

Servings: 4-6

While some St. Patrick’s Day celebrations call for green beer and large gatherings, you may instead opt for a cozy evening at home with comforting foods and close friends.

Whether your shamrock spirit leads you out for a local parade or you’re more of a stayat-home leprechaun, there is one tradition all can agree on: delicious Irish food.

If a quieter night cooking at home is up your alley, you are in luck. You can put a meal worthy of gold on the table with this festive Irish favorite.

A hearty home-cooked meal loaded with flavor and sure to fill you with cheer, Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie is made piping hot to warm up any
St. Patrick’s Day party. Full of hashbrowns, carrots, peas and beef, it’s a twist on tradition served with puff pastry topping the tasty stew. A cup of your favorite stout beer, of course, will come in handy for deglazing the skillet to ensure you enjoy every bit of beefy flavor.

Offering an easy way to participate in the festivities, it might just become a household favorite to be savored year-round.

Make your home a St. Patrick’s Day haven with this hearty recipe!

YOU WILL NEED :


  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup stout beer
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 bag (28 ounces) hashbrowns with peppers and onions
  • 1 can (14 ounces) carrots, drained
  • 1 can (14 ounces) peas, drained
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg

HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :


  1. Heat oven to 400 F.

  2. In large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef; drain and set aside.

  3. Over medium heat, deglaze skillet with beer and whisk in flour. After thickening, whisk in tomato puree and add Worcestershire sauce. Mix in ground beef, garlic powder and beef broth. Add hashbrowns, carrots and peas. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

  4. Simmer 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Place puff pastry sheet on cookie sheet. Beat egg and brush over pastry. Bake 10 minutes.

  6. Place hot puff pastry on top of beef mixture and serve.



Health & Wellness: March Into Wellness

Now is the time to take charge of your health. Keep in mind to do what is best for you. What your body needs is specific to you. Our bodies are always giving us clues for re-direction if we are off course and not feeling our best. Are you paying attention? Our bodies want to come back to balance and vibrate at a high level of functioning because that is where we feel good from the inside out.

Every little thing you do, either guides you towards or away from health. Your environment, the nutrition you consume, your thoughts, physical activity level, stress, support system or lack thereof…  Are you overwhelmed with where to start and then just give up? If so, you’re not alone. Change takes time and your intention will be your foundation.

First, take a step back and figure out how you got to where you are now. Be honest with yourself and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Reflection on how you got into your current health situation may give you clarity. Think about what worked or what did not work towards your health goals. What are your daily habits?

When it comes to needing more energy there are a few things to think about. Do you need more time to relax or are you emotionally stuck? Is sleep an issue? Are you leading a sedentary lifestyle? Is there stagnation or pain in your body? Is toxic load bringing you down? Are there stressful factors weighing you down? Identifying what you actually need for your health is important so that you don’t cause more harm. For example, if you’re not getting quality sleep then you don’t want to begin a daily regimen grinding out gym workouts when you’re already running on low. Perhaps, epsom salt baths at night may be more beneficial to get back on track.

Next, decide what your health goal may be and if there’s a time frame you would like to accomplish it by. Specificity can be motivating. You may be thinking I just want to feel better. That’s fine, but put some energy into what that means. Is it more energy, less pain, improved mood, clear thinking, increased motivation, weight loss or weight gain?

Then, make a simple and feasible step in the direction of health specific for you. Start small and try your best to be consistent. When it comes to eating habits, adding in the good may be more appealing than taking away certain foods. And that’s ok. The more you add in fiber and antioxidants your palate will change and I promise you that shifts in your body will take place and cravings will pivot. Once your palate changes, then maybe you can take the next step in removing offending foods from your diet. If you make any changes that create a feeling that you are missing out on something, then you are setting yourself up for resentment. When it comes to diet changes, it takes a shift in mindframe from the misconception that there is a lack of food to realizing that there are endless options of nutrient dense food available to you.

Believe in yourself that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Ask for help. Surround yourself with people who are supportive. If you’re stuck on taking the first step towards wellness, consider finding a Naturopathic Doctor who is trained from an accredited Naturopathic Medical School in creating health plans encompassing Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle Habits & Supplements that are specific for your health goals. Find your tribe to help you – they are out there! 

In Good Health,
Dr. Dawn Siglain ND, LAc

Foodie Vue: Chop Shop Bar & Grill

47 East Main Street, Smithtown
(631) 360-3383
chopshopbarandgrill.com


Nestled on Main Street in the heart of Smithtown, Chop Shop is a concealed gem that, at times, goes unnoticed. Once you have visited Chop Shop, you will question why you have not discovered it sooner. The restaurant exudes a sophisticated ambiance, complemented by brick and hardwood flooring, with large retro lamp fixtures that evoke the feeling of entering a chic club in the city. Upon entering, you will be greeted by an enthusiastic host that will lead you, if you wish to a welcoming bar where you can begin your culinary experience with one of Chop Shop’s delectable cocktails including their exclusive martini menu.

The dinner menu offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to a wide spectrum of diners, all of which are artfully crafted. Featured are a variety of steaks, fresh locally sourced seafood, notable pasta dishes evening specials followed by an array of desserts, all of which are prepared in-house by their masterful pastry chef. Currently, Chop Shop Bar and Grill is promoting a prix fixe dinner menu on Tuesday and Wednesday featuring a nice selection of food from the land and sea. Included are appetizers and desserts all for just $55 a person. With dining out becoming more expensive these days, it’s great value to take advantage of mid-week.

Upon entering the restaurant on a Tuesday evening, it was nice to see the bar bustling with patrons, enjoying a relaxing cocktail before dinner. For appetizers, consider their Avocado Salad; Featuring a generous mound of mixed greens, accompanied by ample sliced avocado, ripe tomato, pickled red onion, and feta cheese, all brought together in a red wine vinaigrette. The perfect palate cleanser to get your appetite going. I opted for the Mussels, which were plump and succulent, immersed in a flavorful elixir infused with crispy applewood bacon, sliced jalapeño, and roasted garlic, devilishly spicy!

Going to a place called Chop Shop for the first time meant that a good steak was my only possibility. The Porterhouse: ordered medium rare is the only way I roll. A rich beefy flavor with contrasts of textures, offering the buttery tenderness of a filet alongside the robust chew of a strip steak, all perfectly cooked with pink center and a slightly caramelized crust is… well fantastic.

In contrast, my partner ordered the Swordfish; Laid atop a mound of creamy basil mashed potatoes was a beautifully executed sword steak with a cracked pepper sear and chopped tomato placed atop. A satisfyingly dense texture like a well-done steak, beautifully seared on the outside while staying moist and tender within was an excellent choice for my finicky sweetheart.

We completed our meal with cappuccinos accompanied by a Creme Brulé. You don’t see many restaurants featuring them, so it was a wonderful treat. A rich and creamy custard with a layer of hardened sugar was a delightful change of pace. The staff at the Chop Shop is eager to please and for me it is the first thing that I look for. If you haven’t found what you’ve been looking for, search no further. Pay a visit to Chop Shop Bar and Grill. You’ll be glad you did.

Travel: Cape May

Take a Drive to Go Back in Time

Sometimes you need a getaway that you can get to by car. If you can get there in between two and six hours, a car ride is the easiest way to step into a quick [or extended] break from everyday life.

When I want to go away while staying somewhat close to home, Cape May, New Jersey is one of my favorite places to go. Located at the very bottom of the state at Exit 0 of the Garden State Parkway, Cape May is a beautiful beach town with the historic Victorian charm of days gone by.

I was first introduced to America’s oldest seaside resort town several years ago during the fall shoulder season. Quieter than summertime, I was taken in by the quiet lure of the Victorian homes, bed & breakfasts, restaurants, and attractions. I partook of a nighttime walking ghost tour, walked along the beach – barefoot but otherwise bundled, and enjoyed the fudge shop and small boutiques that line its famous Washington Square Mall. 

Cape May is nestled at the very bottom of New Jersey and is accessible by car, public transportation (to Atlantic City roughly 35 minutes north) or, if coming from the south, the ferry from Lewes, Delaware. A beach town, it is also a popular spot for those choosing to boat to their destination. There are myriad places to stay while visiting, from tiny motels to cozy bed and breakfasts to elaborate hotels, including historic Congress Hall. Airbnb and Vrbo rentals abound, making it possible for your stay to feel like a home away from home. The city boasts numerous oceanfront beaches which do require passes for entry (daily, weekly or season), as well as the bayside beaches for those wanting a quieter, gentler waterside experience. Cape May sunsets are simply spectacular. I never visit the area without taking the time to see the sun go down over the horizon.

When not at the beach, there is a remarkable number of things to do in Cape May. The town is a foodie’s delight with fine dining, family friendly restaurants (Bella Vida is my family’s favorite), remarkably good takeout food (Key West Tacos is exceptional), and sweet shops galore (Kohr Bros ice cream, The Original Fudge Kitchen, and Peace Pie are ALL worth a visit). Coffee Tyme is a mut stop for me regardless of the season as I am a fan of both their coffee and hot apple cider. Vineyards abound in the area so stop in for a flight and some appetizers any one of them (I can’t choose one over the others). If you’re looking for fun with your children, we love the Cape May Zoo, a short trip from the center of town. There are putt-putt courses, a beautiful boardwalk, an aviation museum, fishing charters, and dolphin or whale watching day trips. We’ve done them all…and have enjoyed each one. 

And, of course, be sure to walk about and see the beautiful Victorians. Whether they are still residences or have been converted into restaurants, shops, or B&Bs, each one exhibits period charm. They are stately and stunning, making a stroll through town, the equivalent of a visit in a time machine. 

Cape May is the kind of place where you can do everything or nothing at all. Whatever you choose, create the perfect vacation or quick getaway. If you’re like me, your trip will likely be the first of many. Travel safe.

Out & About: March on the North Fork

A Month Filled with Flavor, Fun, and Festivities

As the crisp winter air gives way to the gentle warmth of spring, the North Fork comes alive with a delightful array of events to tantalize your taste buds and lift your spirits. From wine and cheese pairings to live music and comedy nights, March offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. So, mark your calendar and get ready to indulge in these can’t-miss experiences that will make your March on the North Fork truly unforgettable!

Barrel Tastings at Pindar Vineyards
Date: March 1–29, 2025 (Saturdays and Sundays)
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Pindar Vineyards, Peconic, NY
Cost: $50 per person

Kick off the month with a behind-the-scenes look at how wine is made! Enjoy exclusive barrel tastings, followed by a private tasting with the group in the tasting room. Limited availability – reserve your spot online!

Wine & Doughnut Pairing at Pindar Vineyards
Date: March 2–22, 2025 (Saturdays and Sundays)
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Pindar Vineyards, Peconic, NY
Cost: $30 per person

Indulge in a one-of-a-kind pairing experience! Pindar Vineyards teams up with NoFo DoCo for a wine and doughnut tasting that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy three uniquely crafted doughnuts paired with three of their finest wines. Reservations are required.

13th Annual Comedy Night at Greenport Harbor Brewery
Date: Friday, March 7, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM, Showtime 8:00 PM
Location: Greenport Harbor Brewery, Peconic, NY
Cost: $45 in advance, $50 at the door

Laugh the night away with three top comedians! Co-headliners Kerri Louise and Brian Scott McFadden will have you in stitches, with a special guest appearance by Mike Ellison and Dr. Harry Freedman. Enjoy a cash bar and small bites while you take in the show!

Macaroon & Wine Pairing at Sannino Vineyard
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Sannino Vineyard, Cutchogue, NY
Cost: $35 per person

Perfectly paired macaroons and estate wines – what’s not to love? Sannino Vineyard has teamed up with Petite + Sweet Macaroons for a custom macaroon and wine experience. Drop by anytime between 11 AM and 5 PM for this delightful pairing.

Live Music at Pindar Vineyards
Date: Every Weekend in March (March 1–31 2025)
Time: Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Pindar Vineyards, Peconic, NY

Enjoy live tunes while sipping on your favorite wine at Pindar Vineyards throughout the month of March. From local favorites like George Barry and Steve O’Brien to acoustic sets and soul-stirring performances, it’s the perfect way to unwind.

Make the most of March on the North Fork with these fun, flavorful, and unforgettable events! Whether you’re into comedy, wine, food pairings, or live music, there’s something special for everyone. See you all there!

Jaclyn Holzmaier

Upclose: West Hills Chiropractic

Pictured left to right Dr. Robert Hoffmann and Dr. Joseph Mills

400 West Jericho Turnpike, Huntington
631-823-1708
www.westhillspaincenter.com

For those less familiar, chiropractors use their hands to apply controlled pressure to parts of the spine, to improve your body’s physical motion pain free. For over 40 years, Dr. Joseph Mills, owner of West Hills Chiropractic is proud to tell me that he has devoted his life to providing people with a non-invasive alternative to managing or better yet eliminating pain suffering. “Our success stems from our ability to provide personalized care and treatment for our patients. The stress of the pain itself makes matters worse, which is why showing people you genuinely care helps. We are the only chiropractic office that I know of that keeps its doors open for as many hours as we do. In most cases Mon day to Friday 7am to 7pm and Saturday 8am to 12pm”, says Dr. Mills.

West Hills Chiropractic treats patients suffering from injuries, sciatica, neck and back pain, neck, whiplash, headaches/migraines, and other common ailments. As Dr. Mills explains, “Our goal has always been to deliver non-invasive techniques to help our patients overcome their symptoms and regain their quality of life. You may think that all chiropractors utilize the same techniques, not so at West Hills Chiropractic.. A revolutionary piece of equipment and treatment called VAX-D is exclusive to West Hills Chiropractic. More commonly known as Vertebral axial decompression, is an alternative procedure that patients can try to relieve back pain, from various ailments, including herniated discs and sciatica. By stretching the back, VAX-D relieves the pressure caused by herniated discs and other conditions. VAX-D can be effective at relieving back pain in as few as twenty sessions. With a success rate of 85%, curing chronic neck, lower back pain and sciatica relief can be realized.

“We do not just offer random treatment to our patients. Certain treatments are not suited for everyone. Once I get to know the patient, if we determine in their history that they have any type of bone cancer, bone infection they would not be a valid candidate , and we also never treat a patient on the VAX-D table without an MRI older than 5 years and always suggest a new one if possible.”

In the end, chiropractic treatment is something that should be considered before surgery. Some doctors may advise surgery to their patients who suffer from back pain, and while surgeons are skilled and technology has advanced to the point of fewer risks, surgery is invasive and may require long healing periods. Though surgery may be the final solution, there are risks associated that can potentially leave patients in greater pain than they were before. West Hills Chiropractic offers several treatments that can decrease pain and improve mobility. If you are in agonizing pain due to a recent injury or struggling with chronic health challenges for some time, consult with Dr. Mills and his staff that can help you work toward a pain free life.

In addition to running West Hills Chiropractic Center, Dr. Mills also has deep ties to the community and is paying it forward. In 1998, Dr. Mills and his wife, MaryAnn, started an annual fundraiser for pediatric cancer patients called, “Party for Life,” which was inspired by their friends’ son, Peter Careccia. Peter had a non-malignant spinal cord tumor and after several removal attempts, Peter passed away at the age of 14. To date, this event has raised 3 million dollars for charity and has benefited thousands of kids. Each year, the Party for Life fundraiser unites a stem cell donor and recipient for the first time. Dr. and Mrs. Mills also take Camp Adventure kids and their families to Opening Day at Yankee Stadium, complete with transportation and a tailgate before the game. Camp Adventure is a recipient of Party for Life’s generosity.

This story was designed to provide insight into West Hills Chiropractic. ET Week Media does not endorse or make any claims that chiropractic procedure is suited for all people suffering from pain. If you are considering treatment, be sure to consult a trained professional, like Dr. Mills before undergoing any procedure.

 

Personal Development: Be Kind

Kindness towards all people brings light to our world. 

W e can never truly know just how much a kind word, action or gesture can mean to another person.  What may be a very simple utterance or overture, can be the difference between hope and despair, feelings of inclusion versus exclusion, and can remind us of our shared humanity! It doesn’t take a lot to make an impact in someone else’s life.  A thoughtful phone call to check in, a little note in your child’s or significant other’s lunchbox, to let them know you love them, a quick visit to an elderly neighbor’s home, to see if you can help out in some way.  Little things ABSOLUTELY mean a lot, and with all the pressures, responsibilities and distractions this world places upon us, we need to be intentional in our efforts to remember how important our kindness is to others.  Kindness (like courtesy) is contagious. The more we spread, the more it grows.  When we give, we receive the gift of feeling good in ourselves, knowing we have made a positive difference for another. The recipient of our thoughtfulness also feels good, knowing they are seen, valued and heard! It doesn’t have to cost much or anything at all. Time is a precious commodity and one we have to cultivate carefully. Instead of spending endless hours scrolling Instagram or bingeing Netflix, make up your mind to incorporate small acts of kindness, this new year.  Make it a family affair! Include your spouse, your kids, and your friends.  Decide upon a few small first steps and notice how uplifted you will begin to feel, just in brainstorming simple ways to bring kindness to others. It is a gift that keeps on giving and becomes a beautiful testament to a life well lived! Kindness towards all people, whether they be known to us or not, brings light to our world.  Setting wonderful examples for our youth and for our community is another important part of this process.  Contribute to a charitable event or participate in fundraising for a worthy cause.  Bring awareness to the needs of others, at large.  Oftentimes, people are reluctant to “bother” others or feel uncomfortable in stepping into a leadership role.  You don’t need to concern yourself with these notions. Those who wish to participate can and will. Many times, you will find that people are unaware of the needs of others, and actually will appreciate your efforts to inform them. Whether near or far, make sharing and spreading kindness a resolution for life, and bring untold happiness and joy to all, whose lives you touch, including your own!