Holiday Gift Guide : HIS (Page 1)

By

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December 6, 2019

by Tammy Severino

If he’s a guy who loves his tunes and longs for summer days, Tiki Tunes, wireless speakers may be the perfect gift. These Bluetooth speakers look like tiki torches and will add music and a beach vibe to next summer’s backyard moments. Limitlessinnovations.com

Perhaps the man on your list is someone who truly appreciates a glass of fine, 12 year-old scotch. A bottle of Macallan or Johnny Walker Black Label will make for a much appreciated gift. Variations at every price point make it possible for you to pick the one that fits your budget. If he prefers bourbon over scotch, Legent Bourbon, a collaborative brainchild of Jim Beam’s Fred Noe and Shinji Fukuyo, the chief blender of Suntory’s
Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, is just what the bartender ordered.

Uncommon Goods carries an array of reasonably priced gift items for all kinds of interests. If you’re shopping for a foodie, try a 15 flavor oil dipping set. He can dabble with a fresh loaf of bread to find his favorite. UncommonGoods.com

Lush Cosmetics is a company you likely would consider for women. However, their ever-growing line of all natural men’s products has them quickly becoming a fan favorite among guys who want to look and smell their best. From massage oils and soaps to shaving products and skin care, they carry a remarkably large selection of products to meet men’s grooming needs. Lush.com

For the traveling man on your list, let him record his thoughts and impressions in a Leather Etched Map Journal available at The Grommet. TheGrommet.com

For a gift that lasts three, six or even twelve months long, try a monthly subscription club. You can find offerings on everything from whiskey to shaving needs to socks. Fanchest and SprezzaBox are two of the most highly rated with varying price points to suit any budget.

You can never go wrong with gifting a luxurious fragrance. K by Dolce&Gabbana embodies a charismatic and generous spirit. Instantly conjuring the Mediterranean Italian countryside, its warm enveloping embrace evokes the fresh earthy scent of wooded Tuscan hills. The luxury fragrance set includes the Eau de Toilette and After Shave Balm. Price: $94

Holiday Gift Guide : HERS (Page 2)

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

by Tammy Severino

If she loves the latest and greatest in beauty, Jill Stuart Beauty Royal & Urban Princess Collection Set launched in November 2019. The limited-edition collection features products for eyes, lips and face, and will have her feeling beautiful and glamorous. Jillstuartbeautyusa.com

Jane Iredale’s Limited Edition Honeycomb Bag is a great little travel bag that benefits a good cause. A portion of all proceeds from this item will benefit HoneyLove Urban Beekeepers. She’ll thank you… and so will the bees! Janeiredale.com

If she loves to be cozy and warm, the UGG Scuffette II Slipper is a great gift to keep her toes toasty on chilly mornings. Pick her favorite color and watch her smile as she steps into them.

A thoughtful choice for a hardworking woman (and what women isn’t) is a room oil diffuser. There is a wide array of choices to fit your budget and her style. It’s a great alternative to candles, fills the room with fragrance and, with aromatherapy oils, she can melt away the stress of her day. bedbathandbeyond.com

My younger kids were looking for a great gift for their big sister last year. They settled on getting a fragrance. The issue – which one to get her. As a young woman finding her style, she had not yet found her scent. They chose Sephora’s Holiday Sampler, a collection of 13 mini perfumes from top brands and a voucher for her to get a full bottle of her favorite scent. Sephora.com

Throw pillows and blankets are fun, festive gifts that add a little pop to a room and comfort to the person who gets to enjoy them. Pier 1 is one of my favorite places to peruse for soft, beautiful options. I do need to point out that a warm, cozy blanket is a great choice for a woman, man or couple…this gift covers ALL the bases. Pier1.com

Nearly every woman enjoys soaking in a scented bath. Bath bombs and soaks can come in a gift set or individually for use as stocking stuffers. Etsy shops have a whole host of sets from which to choose. Etsy.com

These are only a few of the many options abound this season. Remember, be thoughtful about the recipient(s) taste, be true to your budget, and enjoy the experience – in store or online. (Also, don’t forget to shop local!) Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season
and happy shopping.

Holiday Gift Guide : THEIRS (& Stocking Stuffers – PAGE 3)

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

by Tammy Severino

Buying for two is often the hardest. Look for things that they both enjoy, want to do together and share, or that are truly designed for two.

In addition to offering great gifts for the kitchen, Sur La Table offers an array of date night cooking classes. Consider a gift certificate for two to attend a Saturday evening cooking class together. If you prefer to buy them something, a great choice is a Bodum Copper French Press. Add a pair of coffee mugs, freshly ground coffee and a mix for homemade biscuits or muffins. Surlatable.com

If they’re a stay-in-all-day-Sunday kind of pair, matching plush robes is a great way to keep them cozy. Robes come in an assortment of colors and are often found in the housewares department with the plush bath towels. Macys.com

For the pair on your list who know EVERY Star Wars reference, Etsy has the perfect gift. A wall framed, “I Love You…I Know” between Lego Princess Leia and Han Solo, is something you can personalize without breaking the bank. Etsy.com/NabootiqueChic

Love them or hate them, Amazon has lots of great gifts to fit any budget, especially for a couple. From lovely sheets to a fondue set for special evenings at home, the options abound. Cuisinart’s Fondue Set is a great choice, with all of the accessories needed for a chocolate or cheese feast (food not included). Amazon.com

If you’re shopping for the couple that never gets time for themselves, try creating a gift for a simple evening out. Tickets for two to the local movie theatre and a gift certificate for a pizza date night can make for a much needed date night without costing a fortune. Also, don’t forget a homemade gift certificate to take care of the babysitting
(value – priceless!).

STOCKING STUFFERS

Catrice Mistletoe Kisses ($15.99, CatriceCosmetics.com) 4 Generation Plump & Shine glosses.

Nugg Beauty Winter Fix Ornament ($3.99 each, nuggbeauty.com) Intense moisture boost. Available in three options.

Diptyque Hand Care Set ($88, diptyqueparis.com) The comforting wash solution gently cleanses the hands while the velvet emulsion envelops them with a light & velvety veil.

Aglow Holiday Duo ($48, lilahbeauty.com) A pair of the brand’s lavender-oil-infused hydrating mist, enriched with beneficial botanicals to set, refresh, & hydrate.

Whiskey Stones Double ($22, UncommonGoods.com) Simply freeze. Drop in your drink and enjoy within 5 minutes.

Trio of Travel-Sized Hot Sauce ($15, UncommonGoods.com) 2oz. bottles, with a medley of Jalapeno, Tequila & Lime (Medium), Scotch Bonnet & Ginger (Hot), and Red Habanero & Black Coffee (Hot).

Ethique Hair Sampler ($15.99, Amazon.com) Hair Sampler, featuring five samples, Frizz Wrangler, Heali Kiwi, Wonderbar, Saint Clements & The Guardian.

A Treasured Tradition

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

Maria DiGiorgio is a devoted wife and mother, an educator and designer. Visit her Etsy shop: LaPetiteFleurbyMaria,
for beautiful, one-of-a-kind, hand embellished floral picture frames.

The holidays are a time for celebration! Sharing faith, food and tradition with family and friends is the earmark of the season. This special time of year affords us an opportunity to reflect upon our personal, religious and communal convictions. We seek to be united with those we know and love, as well as with those we know are in need of love, care and generosity. Our hearts, homes, and tables overflow with an abundance of all things representative of love. It is a singularly unique occasion to marry the secular and the spiritual, through beautiful decorations, cherished family recipes, as well as traditions and practices reserved for this very wonderful time of year.
The holidays provide us with an extended period of time in which to showcase our personal sense of style, our culinary prowess and our ability to incorporate the old with the new. Decorating at this time of year is not for the faint of heart, although you can enjoy the over-the-top adornments of others, while maintaining a more minimalist approach for yourself, if preferred. Stores like Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, Pier 1 Imports, local florists and gift shops have a veritable treasure trove of beautiful and festive tableware, lighting, home décor and seasonal accents, all designed to enhance your home and holiday experience.
One way to make your table extra special, is to break out your finest china and serving pieces of personal significance to your family (for example, Grandma’s casserole dish or Mom’s soup tureen). It doesn’t matter if they compliment each other aesthetically; the importance of blending meaning and memories is the object of desire, here. Fresh flowers or greenery, candles and holiday potpourri add additional beauty and flare. Here, too, you may wish to display these items in family heirloom vases, candlesticks or other vessels. Spending time selecting and executing favorite family recipes, as well as choosing objects of religious importance to display on your table, sideboard or anywhere else in your home, make the atmosphere more personal and meaningful.
Home is where the heart is, and it may be more evident than ever during the holidays. Our homes are an extension of ourselves. They reflect the sentiments we embody and furnish us with a haven of love, honor and tradition, in which to commemorate the old and celebrate the new. This is the very essence of the holiday season, and in doing so, we pave the way for future generations to come.
Happy Holidays!

Positive Parenting Solutions: The BEST GIFT you can give your child this Holiday Season!

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

Connie Henriquez H.H.C. is a Teen Life Coach who teaches kids & teens how to overcome anxiety, self-doubt and improve their self-esteem. For more information, call (516) 340-0378 or check out her website at startlovinglife.com.

   December is here and it came quick! It makes you realize how quickly life goes by if we aren’t paying attention. Many parents go through days, weeks and months consumed with routine (or rat race of life), they neglect to actually enjoy life!
   I see this often when working with kids and speaking with their parents. The parent wants what’s best for their child, but most of the time they do it at their own expense. They end up getting bogged down and exhausted along the way because it becomes impossible to keep up. You as the parent weren’t meant to keep up, you were meant to love life! And I am going to show you how…
   The first thing you must do is give yourself a break! As Long Island’s Teen Life Coach, I am constantly on the phone with parents who are concerned about their children. Whether it be anxiety, panic attacks, mood swings or lack of self-esteem, these concerns are very common and usually the result of plain-old childhood pressures. However, when speaking with parents, there is often a tone of guilt in their voice as if they did something wrong to cause their child’s concerns. It breaks my heart when I hear this, because it isn’t true. AND, even if it was, it doesn’t even matter.
   Without a doubt, every child has the ability to be happy and confident regardless of their surroundings, and that includes you, the parent. In fact, that’s what I teach the kids in my program. Happiness is an inside job and kids should never depend on anyone, including their parents, in order to feel good. This is important because parents are HUMAN. Parents aren’t perfect, nor were they ever meant to be. So, stop putting undue pressure on yourself to be the perfect parent– it doesn’t exist. More importantly, you don’t want your child to think that it does. By doing so, you are doing a disservice to you and to them.
   Above all, raise an independent free-thinking child who knows that their happiness is JUST as important as yours. Happiness is an inside job for you (the parent) too, and shouldn’t be dictated by your child’s behavior. Yes, we know that the kids of today tend to be temperamental, but do your best to stay true to you. Appreciate yourself and know you are doing the best you can, AND that is enough! Because as a parent, the best example for your child, is finding your own happiness and teaching them to do the same!

Long Island Holiday Festivities

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

Celebrate
the holidays close to
home this season by
checking out what’s
happening right here
on Long Island!

November 29th Bayville Winter Wonderland
8 Bayville Avenue
(Open until January 1st)
It’s that time of year again, when the Bayville Adventure Park turns into a magical winter wonderland. For under $25 dollars, there are tons of activities to enjoy,
including holiday miniature golf, ice skating, storytelling and a chance to visit Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. They will even have holiday character meet and greets, a holiday express train, along with tons of arts and crafts for the kids. Plus, if you’re looking for somewhere fun and exciting to ring in the New Year, here’s the place.

December 8th

KIDS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
Hilton Long Island/Huntington 598 Broadhollow Rd, Melville
10:00AM-4:00PM
Get your kids ready for a good time! Here they’ll have live music, bouncy house rides, face painting, gingerbread decorating, arts and crafts tables, magic shows and much more. For parents, it’s a great opportunity to capture pictures of their little ones in the toddler soft play area or during the princess guest appearance. So, buy tickets in advance for $5, or purchase them at the door for $10. Also, make sure to enter in raffles for a chance to win special prizes. www.2019kidsholidayfestival.eventbrite.com

December 15th

Santa Brunch
Long Island Aquarium, 431 East Main Street, Riverhead
Seating Times: 10:00AM, 12:00PM & 2:00PM
Attending a Santa Brunch is always high on the list of things to do during
the holiday season. Just pick a seating time that works best, and come enjoy a delicious buffet brunch in the waterfront Sea Star Ballroom of the LI Aquarium. Not only do the kids get to make a special take-home holiday keepsake, but you get to enjoy the aquarium attractions as it is included in your brunch fee! P.S., don’t forget to take along a camera to capture a family photo with Santa. Reservations required – call 631.208.9200, ext. 426.

December 20th- 22nd, 27th-29th

Candle Light Evenings
Old Bethpage Village Restoration 1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage
5:00PM-9:30PM
What’s better than enjoying the holidays in a place where the clocks are always turned back to the 19th century? Beginning at 5:00PM, the evening village walk-through will feature Civil War era Christmas songs, contra-dancing, holiday storytelling, an 1866 decorated Christmas tree and a traditional bonfire. Guests will also have a chance to sip on hot apple cider while they enjoy a guest appearance by Frozen’s Olaf and new this year—an illuminated path to Santa’s workshop.

December 27th& 28th

Twilight Tours of Decorated Vanderbilt Museum
180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
5:30PM-9:00PM
Every year since 1999, spectators are able to view the luxurious living quarters of the Vanderbilt family mansion on a guided, nighttime tour. Outfitted in holiday adornments; decorated by local
designers and garden club members, each room of the Spanish-revival home is more enchanting than the next. Between the lighted trees, ornaments, wreaths, ribbons and beautifully-wrapped artificial gifts, you’re given a nice blend of the homes original historic charm plus the magic of the holiday season. Available online only. Members; Free | Adults; $12 | Children Under 12; $6 | Seniors/Students; $10

December 29th

Hanukkah Party
Wood Kingdom West
120 Milbar Blvd, Farmingdale
2:00PM-4:30PM
Joining Wood Kingdom for their first annual Hanukkah party will be the Melville Chabad. To kick it off, they’ll have playtime for the kids followed by donuts, a Hanukkah story and game of “find the treasure chest of gelt.” Complimentary coffee and tea will also be available for adults and at 4:30PM, a Menorah lighting will take place. So, reserve your ticket online now because space is limited! www.swingsetnow.com/collections/events/products/hanukkah-party

December 31st

Fishes & Wishes
New Year’s Eve Party
Long Island Aquarium
6:30PM-11:00PM
Join the LI Aquarium for their annual
New Year’s Eve Celebration. There will
be plenty of great food and fun on top
of entertainment you won’t find anywhere else. Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour,
DJ, lots of dancing, a penguin meet and greet along with a buffet dinner, which
includes beer and wine. Following that, guests can fill up on sweets at the
dessert and ice cream bar, then
“cheers it” with a mock midnight
champage and sparkling cider toast.
For reservations and ticket pricing,
call 631.208.9200 ext. 426
or book online today.

Pet Age – A Caring Port of Call

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

A caring port of call
With an unusual start, PetPort has
a clear future in benefiting pets.

Pet Age recently spoke with Holly Levis to learn more about her decision to open PetPort, a pet store in Northport, New York.

       What inspired you to open
       PetPort?
   When I was music director at WCBS-   FM, New York, I had just adopted two Jack Russell litter mates. When the boy, Dave, was almost 2 years of age, he was misdiagnosed with lymphoma, and I was told he only had weeks to live. I fell in love with this puppy, and decided I was going to do everything I could to help him. At the time, I was programming the radio station on one computer and researching my dog’s disease on another simultaneously.
   After two years of chemotherapy, we learned that Dave didn’t have cancer. He probably had some strain of Lyme’s disease that was unknown back then and in time it resolved with multiple courses of antibiotics. At that point, I was very interested in going to DVM school, but that’s a tough road. I had a successful career in New York City radio, on-air, for many years at WCBS-FM, WBLS, WKTU and Lite-FM. Going back to grad school at that point was not a reality for me. So, after much thought, I decided to open an all-natural pet supply boutique in my hometown of Northport, New York. It was a side project at the time. I had learned so much studying about pet diseases and nutrition as Dave got better. I really wanted to provide a haven for pet parents to visit, get sound advice and veterinarian referrals—and PetPort was born.
   I created the PetPort brand as if I was programming a radio station. We “played” the top hits. In other words, I started with the top brands in the natural pet food category. First it was top five, then 10 and we started to blossom. Now going into our 10th successful year, we target our local community and it’s really paid off! Dave lived until he was 14 years old.

       What has been the secret
       to your success?
   I think the “secret” to our success is    passion and hard work. I grew up with an adage that my father used to say (it was an old, Earl Nightingale quote): “Successful people do what unsuccessful people don’t want to do.” That phrase speaks volumes on many levels, and has always resonated with me.
   My husband Tom helped me launch PetPort. We worked seven days a week to make PetPort happen. And if there is one
word to describe our brand, it would be trust. Our customers trust that we will always give advice or sell products that will be the best solution for their pets. I want to give people the right products—products that will be the best choice/solution for their dog or cat.

       What made you decide to
       add grooming services?
   It just made sense that we should        offer grooming services after a couple of years in business. Customers kept asking for it. However, I am not a groomer. It was difficult at first, because I wanted to be educated about the profession if I was going to manage it. I started going to all the grooming trade shows. I took bather/fluffer certificate courses, first aid, breed-specific technique courses and then became an AKC-certified groomer.

       Are you planning anything
       special to celebrate your
10-year anniversary in December?
   We want to host a series of charity        events to give back to the community. I’m hoping to do a “Twelve Days of Christmas” promotion through the holidays to raise money for local shelters and rescue groups, complete with “Yappy Hours” for pet parents and their furry family members.

Holiday Travel Tips

By

Marc Piperno

-

December 6, 2019

Yvonne Bonasera holds a Bachelors degree in International Business from LIU and JCU in Rome, Italy. In addition to being the Director of Operations at LICC, she is a travel consultant/ blogger and teaches Italian. Yvonne has visited over 30 countries across 5 continents. She can be reached at ymbtravel.com.

Traveling is always a great adventure!
It’s also a great way to get the
family together and make
memories this holiday season!

Travel is one of the greatest gifts to give. Experiences and memories outlast the things we stow away in jewelry boxes or the attic. The gift of a memorable experience truly keeps on giving. Spending time with one another is a treat for everyone. Here are some ways to make it happen!

Book in Bundles
From now until early February, there are a lot of last minute deals on websites such as Expedia and Priceline. Bundling can often result in a free hotel stay as opposed to booking separately.

Be Flexible
Convenience is key. Tweak the holiday to fit what works best for your family. What would happen if you celebrated with your in-laws on the 23rd and then jetted off to an island with your loved ones? You’d have a great time, that’s what! Don’t confine yourself to specific dates, it’s the holiday season for a reason! Some of the best flight deals can be found on Christmas Eve, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve.

On the Road
Google Trips predicts travel times based on anticipated traffic. Pack plenty of snacks & games for your little ones! An EZ Pass coupled with a before dawn or after 8 PM departure are best to avoid traffic slowdowns. Don’t forget about public transportation. It’s often quicker, but not necessarily cost effective when traveling with multiple people.

Flying
Pack light; carry-on bags only. Don’t risk losing your luggage. Go minimalist to travel with ease. Many airlines now charge for checked luggage, but don’t waste the money. Travel internationally during popular American holidays. Yes, booking that trip to Paris can actually be CHEAPER than heading to Florida, especially Disney. Skip Epcot, see the real thing instead!

Expert Tip: booking two one-way tickets can be cheaper than booking round trip flights.

Go Where Everyone Isn’t
Typically the warmer the weather, the higher the fares. Escape NY weather by going for mild climate destinations. You’ll miss the crowds and score some great deals. Cozy up by the fire pit, bundle up and have a beach vacation. Winter is an ideal time for the east end if traveling off Long Island isn’t an option. You’ll enjoy low nightly rates, less crowded restaurants and vineyards.

Ready, Set, Fall

By

Marc Piperno

-

November 1, 2019

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

   Ladies, it’s officially time to put the beach bags away! The runways are brimming with something for every fashionista this fall. Whether you stay close to the classics, are a playful risk-taker, or suited professional, there are updates and must-have pieces that should be incorporated into your wardrobe this season. A fresh modern edge is the mindset for fall.
   While last year off shoulder tops had their moment, this year, it's all about the asymmetrical neckline. A slanted, one-shoulder top perfectly highlights the collarbone and shoulders without showing it all. This minor neckline tweak is all you need to elevate your look to fresh chic for fall. For those mighty risk takers, here's the perfect place to layer in cheetah. The asymmetrical top is so on trend, but in a beloved animal print, heads will be turning.
   This season, Cheetah will be spotted every-where, but be careful not to dress head to toe in this edgy trend – less is more here. Pair cheetah with your revered denim jeans or if you’re heading out on the town, kick it up a notch with pants or a pencil skirt.
   Slip into another fall front runner: leather pants. Think about rocking a color like rich burgundy or warm brandy; hybridize hues to be on point with this look. Never ever worry my black beauties…you are always on trend. Black leather, coupled with cheetah or a bold colored top, is guaranteed to update your fall look.
   A soft, buttery leather can also be utilized as suiting for an updated look in the workplace. Try swapping out your black blazer with a form-fitted leather jacket. Or, to keep up the edge, aim to incoporate blazers with sharp shoulders or outside belting. A belt on the outside of a jacket is a sneaky way to show a smaller waist and illuminate your chic. Last but not least, don’t forget to work with patterns like heritage tweed or checks.
   Wearing a matching two-piece suit has fallen out of favor the last two years. If you’re not ready to step out of your traditional suit, simply start by adding in texture like animal print or satin underneath your suit jacket. You will be the envy at the office–the look they’ll want to copy.
   We can't dismiss the icing on the cake. Designers are loving capes this season. From couture runway to PTA meeting, a cape is arguably luxe and the silhouette compliments all body types – a win-win. With textures such as velvet, tweed and lush cashmere, a cape is the ultimate go-to for an updated look this fall. A chic woman who is not convinced by the cape and doesn't want to hang up her beloved trench or denim jacket–have no fear. Simply throw your prized denim, motto or trench jacket over your shoulders for a modernistic cape look. Mimick the cape without spending a dime.
Enjoy the bountiful colors this fall while embracing the lively new trends and twists to your existing wardrobe. Ladies, you’re in charge of your wardrobe and you’re your own stylist. Don’t hesitate to add your own unique flare this fall season!

Ready, Set, Fall

By

Marc Piperno

-

November 1, 2019

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

   Ladies, it’s officially time to put the beach bags away! The runways are brimming with something for every fashionista this fall. Whether you stay close to the classics, are a playful risk-taker, or suited professional, there are updates and must-have pieces that should be incorporated into your wardrobe this season. A fresh modern edge is the mindset for fall.
   While last year off shoulder tops had their moment, this year, it's all about the asymmetrical neckline. A slanted, one-shoulder top perfectly highlights the collarbone and shoulders without showing it all. This minor neckline tweak is all you need to elevate your look to fresh chic for fall. For those mighty risk takers, here's the perfect place to layer in cheetah. The asymmetrical top is so on trend, but in a beloved animal print, heads will be turning.
   This season, Cheetah will be spotted every-where, but be careful not to dress head to toe in this edgy trend – less is more here. Pair cheetah with your revered denim jeans or if you’re heading out on the town, kick it up a notch with pants or a pencil skirt.
   Slip into another fall front runner: leather pants. Think about rocking a color like rich burgundy or warm brandy; hybridize hues to be on point with this look. Never ever worry my black beauties…you are always on trend. Black leather, coupled with cheetah or a bold colored top, is guaranteed to update your fall look.
   A soft, buttery leather can also be utilized as suiting for an updated look in the workplace. Try swapping out your black blazer with a form-fitted leather jacket. Or, to keep up the edge, aim to incoporate blazers with sharp shoulders or outside belting. A belt on the outside of a jacket is a sneaky way to show a smaller waist and illuminate your chic. Last but not least, don’t forget to work with patterns like heritage tweed or checks.
   Wearing a matching two-piece suit has fallen out of favor the last two years. If you’re not ready to step out of your traditional suit, simply start by adding in texture like animal print or satin underneath your suit jacket. You will be the envy at the office–the look they’ll want to copy.
   We can't dismiss the icing on the cake. Designers are loving capes this season. From couture runway to PTA meeting, a cape is arguably luxe and the silhouette compliments all body types – a win-win. With textures such as velvet, tweed and lush cashmere, a cape is the ultimate go-to for an updated look this fall. A chic woman who is not convinced by the cape and doesn't want to hang up her beloved trench or denim jacket–have no fear. Simply throw your prized denim, motto or trench jacket over your shoulders for a modernistic cape look. Mimick the cape without spending a dime.
Enjoy the bountiful colors this fall while embracing the lively new trends and twists to your existing wardrobe. Ladies, you’re in charge of your wardrobe and you’re your own stylist. Don’t hesitate to add your own unique flare this fall season!

Restaurant Review : Best Local Comfort Food

By

Marc Piperno

-

November 1, 2019

Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident,
currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community as a writer and mentor. Joanna can be reached by email at LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com.

   The holidays are coming, and it’s quickly becoming the best time of the year. While I am partial to the fall season, I am sure that my summer-enthusiasts will equally enjoy the approaching comfort food, cozy sweater weather and multitude of autumn activities. November is the perfect time of year to celebrate the harvest season! My personal favorite includes recipe testing: soups, stews, casseroles and pasta dishes. When I’m not recipe testing, I also enjoy seeking out the best local comfort food on Long Island.
    One of my favorite fall meals is pot roast. It’s comforting, decadent, and always satisfying. No one does pot roast better than Main Street Café in Northport. It’s served on special, with a side of red cabbage, and potato latke. If you’re walking around Northport, and you see this is being served up, scratch your dinner plans and head inside. Another favorite is the Shed Bowl, from The Shed in Huntington. Roasted chicken, wild rice, arugula, radish, sweet potatoes, sunflower seeds, mushrooms, goat cheese, spiced honey vinaigrette. It’s harvest in a bowl! If bowls aren’t your preference, opt for the Herb Roasted Half Chicken (Free range, garden veggies, gravy) – it’s seriously delicious. Switching gears, comfort food doesn’t have to mean holiday-themed entrees. Instead, to me, it means food that fills you up – literally and soulfully. A recent trip to Little Lucharitos did just that. A quaint, quirky Mexican restaurant & tequila bar in Riverhead serving up extraordinary tacos, salsa and burritos. The BBQ Duck taco (meat is sourced from a local farm) was my favorite – slow cooked, tangy BBQ sauce – absolutely delicious. Pro Tip: make sure to order the salsa – it’s out of this world!
    You can’t write about comfort food without including some Italian recommendations. As a proud Italian, and Long Island native, there are only a handful of places I consider to be excellent. My short list includes: Robke’s, Branchinelli’s, 39 Italian Eatery and Restaurant Joanina. All provide exceptional food, a cozy, authentic atmosphere and signature elements that individually mark them as champions. At Robke’s, I opt for the specials, but I always start with the spicy shrimp. At Branchinelli’s, I stick to the classic parmigiana, and always order their house salad. At 39 Italian Eatery, my friends and family prefer the Pappardelle Bolognese and/or Cacio Pepe. Plus, the gelato is out of this world! Lastly, Restaurant Joanina – Eggplant to start, pizza, escarole and beans, linguine and clams – this place reminds me of my childhood, spent in my grandparent’s kitchen. Everything is incredibly delicious!
    Fall is the perfect time of the year to reflect on the things we’re grateful for, and for me, that’s good food. Whether I’m with family, friends or a loved one – we’re usually chatting and spending time together in a setting that offers delicious comfort food. After all, at the end of the day, ‘food is the ingredient that binds us together.’

The Appi Pleaser Platter

By

Marc Piperno

-

November 1, 2019

Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident, freelance writer and licensed agent at Signature Premier Properties in Northport. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.

  There is no better way to entertain guests than serving up an abundant, Appi Pleaser Platter (Antipasto), before the main course. Whether it’s for the holidays or an informal cocktail gathering, this ornate dish is always a crowd pleaser. Allow your imagination to help you create an artfully arranged assortment of savory bites. Choose from the many Italian delicacies easily found at your local specialty store or supermarket. The possibilities are endless…have fun with it.
   Your presentation can include selections such as: fresh sliced or cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, crisp fennel, roasted (or grilled) red peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or any other vegetable you desire. Select and add a variety of briny tastes – a melody of olives, stuffed cherry peppers, pepperoncini, marinated artichokes, marinated mushrooms, and hearts of palm. The meat choices are endless; try imported hard Italian sausages (hot and sweet), salami, ham, mortadella, roast beef (thin-sliced) and prosciutto di parma.
   Also, a must-have when creating the ultimate antipasto platter–cheese. Be sure to include chunks or slices of hard cheeses like: parmesan, locatelli, and provolone. Try to use soft cheeses too! Fresh mozzarella slices or balls, burrata or ricotta are great selections to have on a nice slice of crusty baguette.
   I often like to serve this platter with a whole can of tuna or anchovies in the center; if you’re really daring, try sardines! There’s no making a mistake here. Last but not least, add fresh cannellini beans and fresh figs – believe me these finger foods, (sweet, salty, and sharp) will wake up the taste buds and engage all of the senses!
   I like to use a real large platter so I have lots of room to create. Put some selections in small separate bowls and incorporate them onto the platter – an extended pleaser. Oftentimes, to dress it up, I line the bottom of my serving platter with shredded lettuce. After you’ve created your platter, whether simple or elaborate, be sure you have incorporated an array of colors, flavors and textures. Then you are done!
   Now, drizzle the platter with a good olive oil, fresh pepper and sea salt, and serve with crusty slices of bread. The real goal here is to excite the palate, not fill up the tummy. Let the platter be your canvas! PLATTER UP and PLEASE! xoxo Denise

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ET Week Media Group

Ciro's Italian Restaurant

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O Sole Mio

Chiddy’s Cheese Steaks

La Piazza

Rincon Criollo

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The Appi Pleaser Platter

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