GEM Magazine LI August 2012 by Tanya Lee

GEMliMAGAZINE Complimentary Issue!

For The Long Island Woman

August 2012

jill zarin what’s she doing now strong island woman

lidia szczepanowski

inside

fashion forward back to school beauty “new” home design

Long Island’s

light DINING beauty, fashion

wellness

plus long island’s health & wellness

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CONTENTS

AuGuST 2012

20 30

features 18

l i d a s z c z e pa n o w s k i N AT I O N A L O R G A N I Z AT I O N F O R W O M E N ’ S S A F E T Y AWA R E N E S S

Jill zaRin T E L E v I S I O N ’ S M O S T TA L k E d A b O u T A N d A N I M AT E d “HOuSEWIFE”

B e aT o F l o n G i s l a n d THE GuIdE TO dINING LONG ISLANd’S LIGHTER SIdE the guide to dining long island’s

lighter side

departments 8 14 18 20 22 24 28 30 32 34 38 40 40 42 44 46 54

pure goodness

La Bottega Italian Gourmet offers a range of HEALTHY SALADS, PASTA and PANINI sandwiches and gluten free menu items. Everything served is so healthy and fresh you’ll leave feeling full without the added stress of gaining weight. All Items can be made to order, and everything is fresh, colorful and delicious. Come feel the spirit of Italy in our own Huntington village. Try La Bottega and you’ll eat healthy without breaking the bank.

sKinny PiZZa

BEAUTY FA S H I O N

STRONG ISLAND WOMAN FITNESS H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S FOOD & NUTRITION F A M I LY & R E L A T I O N S H I P S MAKING A DIFFERENCE

2 LOCATIONs! ROOsevelT FielD Mall & 211 MINEOLA AvE., ROsLYN • 516-686-6180

Dine in - TaKeOUT - DeliveRy - PiCKUP lOCaTiOn lOCaT a iOn 9 WALL sT., HuNTINGTON • 631-271-3540 aT

La Bottega is a full service restaurant, though it is small in size to replicate the feel of an Italian trattoria. La Bottega offers a dine-in and take-out menu. They have something for the whole family. OvER 65 PANINI AND 25 SALAD SELECTIONS, great pasta dishes, pizza, weekly lunch and dinner entrees & THE LARGEST GLUTEN FREE MENU. They also offer a full off-premise catering menu. A fun, cozy and romantic Italian trattoria with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes each and every guest feel at home. LABOTTEGAOFHUNTINGTONCOM.

la bottega huntington

SKINNYARUGULA

fresh american-style

HOME & GARDEN

We all love pizza and at SKINNYPIZZA, we get to enjoy one of our favorite foods without the guilt of excess fat and calories. Dive into a slice of one of their daily creations like SKINNYMARGARITA, SKINNYBUFFALO, SKINNYMUSHROOM or our favorite, SKINNYARUGULA. Oh-so-thin and crispy crusts are made without additives or preservatives - choose regular, whole wheat or gluten-free. An extensive menu of hormone-free meats, veggies and cheese toppings allows you to build your own pizza, or try one of their salads, wraps, soups or pastas. Blending great taste with good health, SKINNYPIZZA has two locations and can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare and SKINNYPIZZA.COM.

la BOTTeGa hUnTinGTOn

THE SUPERINTENDENT

PiZZa - PasTa - salaDs - WRaPs

IYPanini - IYSalads

PET CARE

A Uhealy’s TOM innO T I V E DeliCiOUs salaDs - FResh seaFOOD sPeCials lOCaTiOn 54 BROADWAY, GREENLAWN • 631-754-2700

TRAVEL

Healy’s has an extensive selection of “lighter side” dishes which can satisfy any craving. Healy’s has been serving delicious, American-style food since 1994 and continues to keep their menu fresh with SALADS, WRAPS and SEAFOOD SPECIALS. You will love the crock of homemade onion soup or the great salad choices, like the bright and flavorful Southwestern tortilla salad. In addition to their menu, each night of the week Healy’s has fun dinner specials: Monday – Mexican night with Corona and tequila specials, Tuesday – Surf & Turf combos, Wednesday – All you can eat pasta night, Thursday – Buy one appetizer, get the second one FREE and Saturday night – chef’s choice featuring fresh seafood specials. To top it off, you don’t have to break the bank to break bread with family at Healy’s Inn. HEALYSINN.COM

BUSINESS & FINANCE MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR A GOOD CAUSE G I R L’ S N I G H T O U T

All artwork, design & layout by Gem Magazine LI, is sole property of the publisher and may not be reproduced in whole or p a r t . T h e p u b l i s h e r w i l l n o t b e r e s p o n s i b l e f o r e r r o r s i n a d v e r t i s i n g b e y o n d t h e c o s t o f t h e s p a c e o c c u p i e d b y t h e e r r o r, a n d s u c h r e s p o n s i b i l i t y, i s a n y, s h a l l b e l i m i t e d o n l y t o t h e f i r s t u s e o f a d v e r t i s i n g i n t h e c a s e o f r e p e a t e d u s e . T h e p u b l i s h e r reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising at its sole discretion. The advertiser shall represent that all artwork and copy provided by the advertiser is owned by the advertiser and it has the right to utilize such in this publication. ©2012 Gem Magazine LI.

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GEMliMAGAZINE

Lifestyle Magazine For The Long Island Woman

from the publisher pUBlisHeR

Ta n y a L e e conTRiBUTinG wRiTeRs Lisa Albinowski kevin Albinowski Matthew Ambrosio d r. S t e p h e n A t k i n s Jo Ann bellistri Cathy berger Jungle bob Roxanne browning Carole burke Grazia Monda Cooney Maryann deSimone Thea Ferzola Lauren Geldmacher d r. I n n a G e l l e r m a n bettie Hamilton Rosemarie kluepfel Marianne Libretto Laney Liner Michele Martin Frances McGarry Patricia McManus Susan Montana d r. L a u r a N e s s Carol Nucci Alyse Parise Paula klee Parish Lisa Renee Pomerantz Ta m i R a c a n i e l l o Jodi Record Mary Rosenvinge Mary Simmons Jean Summit-Riker d r. R i c h a r d R o n g o Colleen Simon Lidia Szczepanowski M i c h a e l Ta c k A d r i a n a va t e r J o h n S . va t e r S u z a n n e Wa c h t e l Colleen White

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” ~ Henry brooks Adams Who doesn’t remember their favorite teacher, the one that made algebra or Shakespeare interesting? The one who could crack a joke right before a pop quiz and make you smile instead of wince .Was there a teacher who challenged you, who identified your talent, who stayed after school to make sure you understood the problem and could solve the equation? For many of us our teachers helped mold us and sent us on our path into young adulthood, whether to college, technical school or work, a little better prepared. Teachers left some mark on our childhood. As the hot days of Summer begin to fade and Labor day approaches, parents prepare their children for another school year to begin. Lists of school supplies are checked off as stores stock up on 2 inch binders, glue, post its and the perfect “first day of school” outfit. Children will return a couple of inches taller, as they inch their way into adulthood with each passing grade. As parents, we send our children off to school in hopes that their education will help prepare them for the future. We hope they will build lasting friendships, become empowered and inspired to be the best they can be.

tany a

contributing editors

sales & MaRkeTinG

Hillary Call

Fran Petito

Sara Fingerman

disTRiBUTion J u S T I N T. L E E J O N AT H A N C AvA N A G H pUBlisHed BY GEM MAGAZINE LI 631-870-9843 GEMMAGAZINELI.COM LIPWN.COM INFO@GEMMAGAZINELI.COM

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by Grazia Monda and Colleen White Going back to school can be a fun time for some students but hard for others. A new hairstyle can help your child stand out. The price guideline should determine what type of salon you go to. Some of your kids have as much hair as you, so don’t expect a discount if you decide to take your child to a full service salon. Let your child have the freedom of sitting and checking out styles. After spending a lot of time in the pool, a lot of girls really need a trim, or a whole new style. Always meet with the stylist that is going to cut your teen’s hair so that you are on the same page. Sometimes there can be miscommunication between a teen and hairstylist, and you as the parent will have to live with them! When it comes to color, make sure it’s always done by a professional. Your child’s hair is always changing in their pre-teen years and could affect her years ahead. Make sure those hot irons are used on a low setting. There is no reason to be on high, and definitely use some serum after it’s dry, and before using an iron. I always recommended that every girl in elementary school should always keep their hair in ponytails. A little hairspray helps them take every precaution to not get any lice. For your pre-teens, (to help you if the morning is crazy) wash your girl’s hair the night before, it will cut the styling time in the morning. Or just braid it, and they will have great hair in the morning with beautiful waves. School can be hard on all kids, so make it quick in the morning so they can have a great breakfast and get ready for that long first day. • Grazia Cooney and Colleen White CSI Salon & Spa 631-320-1554, csihairsalon.com

beautytrends BEAUTY TRENDS

YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY

your hairdresser can save your life by Patricia McManus Your hairdresser can save your life, both physically and proverbially. As a hairdresser for many years, I have discovered suspicious moles on my client’s scalps and have advised them to see their dermatologist. Some of these people have had melanomas treated by their doctors with positive results. To avoid this from happening to you, your scalp must be protected from the sun by wearing a hat, sunscreen and avoiding prolonged exposure to nature’s elements. This may seem harsh, but your scalp is as vulnerable to burning as your face. On a lighter note, don’t let this warning stop you from having fun. Use common sense and have your scalp checked occasionally. Summer hair needs extra attention by utilizing a moisturizing conditioner and a conditioner with sunscreen. Always wash your hair after swimming in a pool or the surf. Salt water and chlorine can wreak havoc with your tresses. A glaze can fill in the cuticle of the hair and help protect it from the elements. Enjoy your summer. Remember, getting your hair done can be better than therapy. • Patricia McManus - patmystudio.com 631-543-0106, patmystudio@optonline.net what colors

a bit of history

shedding light on shadows page 12

For Brown/Blue Eyes BeautyBLESS shop.beautybless.com Intl. Glamour Collection: Paris $35.

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Shadows are a beautiful part of history. Our ancestors believed wearing eye makeup protected them from evil spirits and could prevent blindness. So eye makeup didn’t just adorn historically, it also treated. However, let us move into the fast-paced world of today and take a look at this underused and very fun colorful, powdery magic we call eye shadows. Most of you do not wear them because you

There are basic guidelines you can follow to brighten and enhance your eye color, but you do not have to be rigid with the recommendations. Remember the one rule of makeup. There are no rules, be free to express yourself.

bear this concern that you will, (and I have had heard this numerous times), look like a clown. That makes me laugh. I thought everyone wanted to look like “Mimi” from the Drew Carey Show. Just kidding! So why do I sit here and write and persuade you to learn to apply shadows? When we wear makeup we feel good. It boosts self-esteem and confidence because we look good. We could all use that now and then, agreed?

• Brown eyes can brighten up with greens or purples/pink tones. Out of the box color, emerald. • Blue eyes become sparkling with pale blues and pinks. Out of box color, silver. • Green eyes become brilliant with green, purple or gold. Out of the box color, burgundy.

let us play

• Hazel/Grey eyes become vivid with silver and bronze tones. Out of the box color, sky blue.

We begin with the most frequent question. Where does the shadow go? First, when you start something new and have little or no experience what do you do? Practice and make mistakes, of course. Maybe you will not get it the first time or maybe you will. In my home when I want to try out a new look, I sit myself down and find a model. You can do it on yourself, your daughter, best friend or even a “secure” male companion. If you want a good time, hide the makeup remover. Okay, look at the eye. There are three basic sections from top to bottom; the brow (1), crease (2) and lid (3). Each section can have a different color and this is where we really should not bend any rules, and you know I am a rule breaker so listen carefully for a worry and circus-free stare or until you are ready. See below.

helpful tips • Use an eye primer before shadow application to prevent creasing and prolong wear. • To finish the look, use your finger or a brush to blend the crease color into the brow and lid. Soften the lines. • Apply using brushes because it is more hygienic, you will waste fewer products and it applies more evenly. At least two brushes; one for the light and one for the dark. Try not to mix, it will get muddy. Just clean them once a month with a little baby shampoo. Bed, Bath & Beyond has great brush sets made of eco-friendly bamboo for around $15.

selection Brow Bone Crease Lid Lash-line

1. Pick a light natural flesh toned color for the brow. This will highlight/open the eye. 2. The crease always gets the darkest tone. This will create depth and the “shadow” effect. 3. The lid is the fun color you use to enhance the color of your eyes and that is whatever your heart desires. This is also the color that stands out the most.

shedding light on

by Matthew Ambrosio Beauty Educator and Makeup Executive

shadows

For Hazel/Grey Eyes Stila Cosmetics stilacosmetics.com Eye Shadow Trio: rose-gold glow $28.

beautybless.com, matthew@beautybless.com

For Green Eyes Smashbox smashbox.com Be Discovered Eye Shadow Palette $44.

by Adriana Vater Let your natural beauty shine through! A little extra TLC for skin and hair makes a big impact, allowing your natural radiance to take center stage. Aveda’s Enbrightenment Skin Care Line helps skin “glow from within,” lightening dark spots caused by too much exposure to the sun. Brightening toners are beneficial to your skin and can be used before you apply your sunscreen.

Aveda’s Sun Care collection is great because it’s a complete solution for skin and hair. A hair veil offers a lightweight water-resistant UV defense for up to 16 hours. The combo sun care body/hair cleanser gently removes chlorine buildup, salt from the sea and overall product buildup. It also locks in moisture. An aftersun hair masque restores sun-exposed hair. The moisturizing benefits and sexy shine that come with a new color treatment can also be had without the color. These zero color, glossing treatments return moisture and shine (normally lost over the cold months of winter) to your tresses. Beat back humidity with solutions designed to keep hair smooth and reduce frizz. Stay away from those dangerous hair-straightening processes, which can be had without the harsh chemicals and certainly not worth the risk. Aveda’s Smooth Infusion Retexturizing System, a semipermanent hair straightening treatment delivers smooth, glossy locks – and it’s 97% naturally derived, making it a safe, effective choice. • Adriana Vater - Spa Adriana Salon & Spa 631-351-1555 spaadriana.com

The Window Shop Jewelers 104 Main Street • Northport, NY 11768 USA (631) 261-0436 Mon-Sat 10am-6pm • Sun 12pm-5pm www.TheWindowShopJewelers.com

a bit of history Shadows are a beautiful part of history. Our ancestors believed wearing eye makeup protected them from evil spirits and could prevent blindness. So eye makeup didn’t just adorn historically, it also treated. However, let us move into the fast-paced world of today and take a look at this underused and very fun colorful, powdery magic we call eye shadows. Most of you do not wear them because you

let us play We begin with the most frequent question. Where does the shadow go? First, when you start something new and have little or no experience what do you do? Practice and make mistakes, of course. Maybe you will not get it the first time or maybe you will. In my home when I want to try out a new look, I sit myself down and find a model. You can do it on yourself, your daughter, best friend or even a “secure” male companion. If you want a good time, hide the makeup remover. Okay, look at the eye. There are three basic sections from top to bottom; the brow (1), crease (2) and lid (3). Each section can have a different color and this is where we really should not bend any rules, and you know I am a rule breaker so listen carefully for a worry and circus-free stare or until you are ready. See below.

selection Brow Bone Crease Lid Lash-line

shed

shad

dding light on

what colors There are basic guidelines you can follow to brighten and enhance your eye color, but you do not have to be rigid with the recommendations. Remember the one rule of makeup. There are no rules, be free to express yourself. • Brown eyes can brighten up with greens or purples/pink tones. Out of the box color, emerald. • Blue eyes become sparkling with pale blues and pinks. Out of box color, silver. • Green eyes become brilliant with green, purple or gold. Out of the box color, burgundy. • Hazel/Grey eyes become vivid with silver and bronze tones. Out of the box color, sky blue.

dows

beautybless.com, matthew@beautybless.com

the little black

by Lidia Szczepanowski You have an important business meeting in the afternoon then you have to run off to an elegant cocktail reception. You won’t have enough time to go home and change, so what’s a girl to do? The “Little Black Dress” (“LBD”) to the rescue! Since Chanel introduced the LBD in 1926, it has become the epitome of style and versatility. It is a “rule of fashion” that every woman should own at least one simple, chic solid LBD that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Worn with a solid structured jacket, pearls and pumps, you will make a bold and powerful statement in the boardroom or at any business function. After your meeting, lose the jacket, throw on your sky-high heels and add an ornate chunky necklace with some popping earrings, and voila…fearlessly fashionable and ready for cocktails! But how can you create these great looks without breaking the bank? You can find fabulous good quality LBDs at White House Black Market, Saks Off 5th, Nordstrom The Rack, Marshall’s and Century 21. For great trendy designer shoes (bright colors are hot, hot, hot) check out DSW and MJM and you can grab some of the best statement jewelry (at seriously discounted prices) at TJ Maxx. When selecting your jewelry, remember that a larger necklace usually warrants wearing smaller earrings, and matching sets can often be “too much” of a good thing. If you choose to wear very large earrings instead, consider a simple understated necklace or none at all.

Original Coco Chanel little black dress in 1926

dress transitioning from boardroom to cocktail reception

For some extra glamour, stop by the local pharmacy and pick up some “Revlon Fantasy Lengths Self-Adhesive Lashes”. There’s no glue to mess around with and they are very simple to apply right over your make-up. If you haven’t had time to get a manicure, pick up a box of “Kiss Stick-On Nails” for an instant French Manicure and finish off your striking look with big, bold pink or red lips. No matter where you go, wear your favorite LBD with confidence.

Chanel 1926

• Lidia Szczepanowski is an Attorney, Black Belt, Personal Safety Expert, Former Mrs. New York, Journalist, Everything Lidia, Inc. Owner and Talk Radio Show Producer-Host, and Founder of the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness, Inc. EverythingLidia.com, AskLidiatheLawyer.com.

fashiontrends if wearing a lab coat makes you smarter, what will a handkerchief square do? by Cathy Berger We already know this: the clothes you wear say a lot about you. Your punk outfits in high school projected your rebellious side and your disinterest in beauty—sorry, authority. You graduated to killer suits and designer labels to express your newfound sense of business savvy and self confidence. But besides displaying your current mentality, could your wardrobe choices actually impact your internal psychology so much as to affect your success? According to Adam Galinsky of the Kellogg school of Management at Northwestern University—yes! Inspired by The simpsons episode in which the springfield’s schoolkids’ attitude is drastically affected by their uniform color, Galinsky and colleague Hajo Adam conducted a series of experiments meant to determine the effect of clothing choice on cognitive performance. In a study published by the Journal of experimental social Psychology, Galinsky and Adam found that subjects who were made to wear lab coats they were told belonged to doctors consistently outperformed both subjects who wore street clothes and subjects who wore identical lab coats that were said to belong to painters. did you read that right? The study indicates that our psychological processes are shaped by the symbolic meaning we attach to the clothes we wear. Galinsky and Adam call this process “enclothed cognition,” described as “the systematic influence that clothes have on the wearer’s psychological processes.” doctors are considered to be attentive, focused people; thus when someone in the study put on a doctor’s lab coat s/he unwittingly adopted those qualities as well. The practical applications of this study are unclear. surely the solution isn’t to track down steve Jobs’s old turtlenecks in hopes that some of his genius will rub off on you! What is clear, however, is the value of dressing for success. The key to the study is the fact that the lab coats of the most successful subjects weren’t actually worn by doctors—they were merely perceived to be worn by them. The experiment indicates that the “doctors” lab coats offer something of a placebo effect. The mind is a powerful thing; if you can convince yourself that wearing a lucky tie or favorite black shoes makes you smarter, more efficient, or more successful maybe it will! Of course, if you are afraid of doctors or are still in punk mode, wearing a lab coat will not help your clothing mindset. But that’s for another study. • Cathy Berger - Fashion societe, fashionsociete.com

E=mc

Q &

jill zarin

by Sara Fingerman After four seasons on air, television’s most talked about and animated “Housewife”, Jill Zarin has graduated to bigger and better things! Jill Zarin is the definition of today’s Strong Island Woman and has submerged herself into entrepreneurship from an early age. A native Long Islander born in Woodmere, NY, Jill graduated from Simmons College School of Retail Management. Not only is she a successful businesswoman, she is a very kind and giving philanthropist. Jill is active with creakyjoints.org, Art for Life, Artragious and the Eric Trump Foundation for St. Jude’s Hospital. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jill in her beautiful summer home in the Hamptons. She was a gracious host who gave me a tour of her home and introduced me to her husband Bobby and friends that were staying with them for the weekend. She shared details about the present and future endeavors of her company, JBZ Enterprises, LLC. By the end of the evening, I no longer felt like a reporter interviewing a celebrity, but an old friend sharing stories and catching up on life. Here are some excerpts from my interview with Jill:

Q : How did you choose the name Skweez Couture™? A : As I was getting dressed, I squeezed myself into my

shapewear, hence Skweez Couture™ was born.

Q : Is this different from Spanx? A : My shapewear line is a little different than some of

my competitors because of the femininity factor. Instead of feeling like you’re wearing your grandmother’s girdle, why not have something sexy and feminine under your clothes? I use a lot of lace and seasonal designs. Not only will this make young women feel more confident, it will also improve posture. I have stretch tanks, which come in many different colors along with leggings with added shapers.

Q : Where is Skweez Couture™ Sold? A : Macy’s, HSN, Lord and Taylor and Amazon.com. Q : What was your inspiration for JZ jewelry? A : I was inspired to design a jewelry collection that had

Q : What inspired you to start Skweez Couture™? A : I had my “a-ha” moment while I was filming Season

4 of The Real Housewives of New York City, driving to a wedding in the Hamptons. I was wearing someone else’s shapewear. As I was getting out of the car, my whole leg was exposed like a pastry bag. The shapewear was really squeezing my whole leg, very uncomfortable and very unattractive. It was at that moment, I told my husband on camera that I have to make my own shapewear, and I have to make it look pretty. I said I could do better and I did! I’m an entrepreneur at heart and from the time I was in college, I sold undergarments and pajamas out of my dorm room. I’ve always been drawn to the undergarment industry.

the look and quality of designer, luxury pieces at a price everyone could afford. Each piece is named after the wonderful women in my life. Such as the Lisa ring for my sister, the Allyson for my daughter, the Gloria for mom, and so on.

If you could give advice to the readers of GEM Magazine LI, what would it be?

: In life, a general piece of advice is in order for anyone to love you, you must love yourself. In business, never ask someone to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself and that will take you a long way. Give before being asked, and your best publicist is you. • Sara Fingerman - sara@gemmagazineli.com Arts & Entertainment Editor, GEM Magazine LI

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by Alyse Parise Info@AskLidiaTheLawyer.com Lately I have been 631-270-7771 445 Broadhollow Rd., Suite 124, Melville, NY thinking a lot about what Lidia is also the CEO of Everything Lidia, Inc., a multi-platform lifestyle success means. enterprise which includes Stylish Safety® Personal Protection and It may be when youand Products, a Radio Talk Show, Speaking Safety Awareness Seminars earn your firstInterview six-figure Engagements, Coaching and is devoted to educating, training, challenging and inspiring women to live safer, more fulfilling and remarkable yearly income or million lives. EverythingLidia.com. dollars in sales. It mayTo book a seminar or for more information email Info@EverythingLidia.com or call 516.558.7131. be clearing out your overstuffed closet or winning a community award or seeing your child enter college. If you ask ten different people, you will get ten different responses. Success has so many different facets; what is status-seeking for one person may be altruistic for another. I like the broader definition from Susan Scott who Rosemarie Kluepfel wrote Fierce Conversations.Mortgage Success is where who Consultant you FEATURES: are and how you live are aligned. In other words, NMLS# 40311 • Low is down payment success really about alignment, where there is • Available for primary residences, second homes consistency in your beliefs, thoughts and actions. and investment I see too many properties people chasing money as the marker for success, and forgetting to enjoy the 1757the Veterans journey along way. Hwy., Suite 12, Islandia, NY 631-881-5110 Cell: 631-662-4576 LauraDirect: Nash and Howard Stephenson, of the Harvard School, did aDepartment long study of NMLS# what 2289 LicensedBusiness Mortgage Banker NYS Banking made people feel an enduring sense of real success. They found four ‘irreducible components’ that were necessary for people to feel a strong and enduring sense of success. 1. Happiness - feelings of pleasure or contentment 2. Achievement - accomplishing goals, particularly those that stretch you beyond your known limits 3. Significance -making a positive impact on others 4. Legacy -leaving behind a trail of “good works” I am interested in what success means to you. I see so many people aiming for a level of success based on what they think they it “should” be. Go inside, stop comparing yourself to others and ask, “how do I define success, how would I like to define success, how can I measure my success and how can I enjoy my successful life personally and professionally?” I would love to hear your responses. • OnFire Alyse Parise LCSW Psychotherapist and Certified Business Coach alyseparise@poweroutcomes.com 631-689-6272

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by Hillary Call Beware the Tweezers of Terror and heads up for the Handbag Hurl: two of the “Stylish Safety” selfdefense moves taught by Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq. She is Long Island’s high-heel wearing karate black-belt, lawyer, beauty pageant stunner and founder of the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness, Inc. (NOWSA), ), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization helping to prevent violence against women and teens. Lidia is the ultimate empowerment warrior. A survivor of sexual assault, Lidia - who was just 13 at the time - used her experience to fuel an impassioned, lifelong effort to help women stay safer and discover their selfesteem.

These initiatives have attitude. There’s the “I B SAFE” campaign, a stylish slap bracelet distributed in middle and high schools. Each bracelet comes with a card explaining the acronym

Get Involved!

• Introduce the “I B Safe” program at your school • Join in the next “Designer Voices for a Cause” Fashion Event, October 25, 2012 • Host a “Stylish Safety” seminar at your business or educational institution or purchase a DIVAS Crystal Whistle at EverythingLidia.com • Sponsor a “Voices for a Cause” event, donate or volunteer

Statistics:

According to the U.S. Department of Justice: • In 2009, youth ages 12-24 had the highest rate of victimization. • Girls ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault. “I didn’t realize the impact the assault would have on my life,” she said. “And when I did, I realized: I never wanted to be a victim again.” Lidia went to law school, she says, “to ensure my financial security.” She earned her black belt in karate “because I wanted to be physically secure.” In an effort to continue to raise awareness about women’s safety issues, Lidia competed in (and won) several beauty pageants, most recently Mrs. Metropolitan NY. In 2007 she founded NOWSA, which educates women and teens through creative violence prevention and safety initiatives. 1

“SAFE”: Stay away from strangers, be Aware of your surroundings, Follow your gut, Evaluate your options. “Covers for a Cause” book covers, which are provided to school districts, remind teens about “stranger dangers,” “safe dating” and to “walk with confidence.” “We need to talk as a

A portion of the proceeds from “Stylish Safety” seminars and products is donated to the NOWSA.

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programs give victims of sexual assault and violence a forum where they can share their personal stories of tragedy and triumph to help build confidence and selfesteem in themselves and others. In the past, actors, musicians and others in the community have taken to the stage to act out true stories of violence against women. For many, telling their stories gave them a “voice” for the first time. “We have stories from women who were abused as children, victims of domestic violence, sexually assaulted and brutally attacked,” said Lidia. “People are in tears. It’s a powerful thing.” These stories, or “virtual voices,” can also be found on the NOWSA’s Website (thenowsa.org). “Designer Voices for a Cause” is an annual red carpet fashion show event where designer fashions are modeled by celebrities, pageant title holders and other members of the community. “Comedy Voices” and “Golfer’s society about how we think she said, Voices” are about similar violence,” events that raise herself as a mother of two teen boys and a pre-teen awareness about violence against women daughter.and One of NOWSA’s first undertakings was teens. to establish Teen Personal Safety Awareness Week, Building Self-Esteem soon to become a national initiative A key part of the NOWSA’s mission occurring is buildingevery selfNovember 1-7. esteem for women. “So many of us lack confidence,” Everyone Has A hoping Voice that if we can instill this in said Lidia. “We’re The NOWSA’s various “Voices Cause®” young girls it will stick with themfor fora the rest of their programs give victims of sexual assault violence lives, and help with every decision they and make. “ a forum where they can share their personal stories of © NasKaras photo tragedy and triumph to help build confidence and selfesteem in themselves and others. In the past, actors, musicians and others in the community have taken to the stage to act out true stories of violence against women. For many, telling their stories gave them a “voice” for the first time. “We have stories from women who were abused as children, victims of domestic violence, sexually assaulted and brutally attacked,” said Lidia. “People are in tears. It’s a powerful thing.” These stories, or “virtual voices,” can also be found on the NOWSA’s Website (thenowsa.org). “Designer Voices for a Cause” is an annual red carpet fashion show event where designer fashions are modeled by celebrities, pageant title holders and other members of the community. “Comedy Voices” and “Golfer’s Voices” are similar events that raise awareness about violence against women and teens. Building Self-Esteem A key part of the NOWSA’s mission is building selfesteem for women. “So many of us lack confidence,” said Lidia. “We’re hoping that if we can instill this in young girls it will stick with them for the rest of their lives, and help with every decision they make. “

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fitness

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Karen Alpert (left) and Dana Ptucha (right) of YogaFlex in Warrior II Pose.

exercise reduces stress by Carol Burke Is it just me, or does our life seem to get more and more stressful as time goes on? Research has shown that prolonged stress can lead to illness and disease. So we must ask ourselves what can we do to help our bodies deal with the stress more effectively. The signs of emotional tension appearing in stressful situations tend to intensify when there is a lack of physical activity. So it makes perfect sense to make sure you add physical activity to your to do list. I know that part of your daily stress is a direct result of your to do list and adding to it doesn’t sound helpful at all. But it is and here’s why. Exercise is a very effective stress management technique. Exercise reduces stress because it utilizes stress hormones, relaxes muscles, uses fat and cholestrol, reduces the impact of illness and gives you a feeling of happiness. The new found energy and sense of empowerment you get from the exercise will help you tackle your to do list that may be causing you unwanted stress and give you back control of your life. It is very clear that exercise reduces stress, but the benefits of exercise extend well beyond stress management to the overall promotion of good health and well being. • Carol Burke - Power of One Fitness Studio powerofoneny.com, 631-757-6937 20

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by Laney Liner Neeta Shah MD, FACP and VP of Women’s Health Community Services at North Shore-LIJ Health System reports that “there is scientific evidence that yoga helps to reduce stress, back pain, chronic headaches, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure and sleeplessness due to the mind-body connection.” There are many styles of yoga including Vinyasa and Hot Yoga. Some hot yoga styles include The Barkan Method ® and Bikram ® . New to the scene is Anti-Gravity ® Yoga which is practiced while suspended in the air in a hammock. The practice of yoga incorporates physical poses (asanas) to restore or increase flexibility, breathing techniques, meditation and relaxation. It is estimated that twenty million people in America practice some form of yoga. How does yoga help us de-stress? Karen Alpert, a mother of three, certified Barkan Hot Yoga instructor and co-owner of Yoga Flex in Commack, NY said, “Yoga is a chance to ‘escape to the mat’ and devote time

healthcare homework by Marianne LiBretto When we return from the excitement of our summer vacation, we begin to get all our “back-toschool” obligations in order-be it for our families or even for ourselves. We may not really be going “backto-school” ourselves, but that feeling of readying ourselves for September is certainly inside us all. Rituals are hard to break, and making appointments for medical check-ups and various therapies are no exception. In your haste to act as project manager for this, tune in to your inner intelligence and intuition, then ask yourself “Do I really know who I or my family members are going to for excellent healthcare?” This is a time when you really need to do your homework too. Did you know that chiropractors and acupuncturists cannot treat for anxiety and

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Info@AskLidiaTheLawyer.com

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Lidia is also the CEO of Everything Lidia, Inc., a multi-platform lifestyle enterprise which includes Stylish Safety® Personal Protection and to yourself every day. The heat allows us to go deeper Safety Awareness Seminars and Products, a Radio Talk Show, Speaking into the body to Interview relieveCoaching stress,andtension, anxiety. Engagements, is devoted and to educating, training, Hot yoga also and works to women elevate mood as endorphins challenging inspiring to live safer, more fulfilling and remarkable lives. EverythingLidia.com. To book a seminar more information are released into the body leading to or anforoverall feelingemail Info@EverythingLidia.com call 516.558.7131. of well-being. After classor your body feels better, you

have greater clarity of thought, and you’re better able to handle mental and emotional challenges.” Laura Weil Caldari, a wife, mother of two, two-time breast cancer survivor and a Hatha Yoga Instructor at Om Sweet Om Yoga in Port Washington, NY and Yoga Flow Studio in Glen Head, NY said, “I focus on selfacceptance, breathing and proper alignment. I believe yoga strengthens and stretches the body, the mind and Rosemarie Kluepfel the spirit.” Mortgage Consultant FEATURES: The practice of yoga and hot yoga NMLS#helps 40311 individuals • Low down payment to strengthen their resolve. If you are looking to deAvailable primary residences, second stress, •try it. It isforrecommended that you homes consult your investment properties physicianand before engaging in any exercise program. To learn more, contact Karen from YogaFlex 631Veterans Hwy., SuiteOm 12, Yoga Islandia, 462-9642 or1757 Laura from Om Sweet at NY 516944-9642. Direct: 631-881-5110 Cell: 631-662-4576 • LaneyLicensed Liner Mortgage - OwnerBanker of Blue Creative Group, Inc. NYS Thunder Banking Department NMLS# 2289 follow laney on Twitter @laneyliner, bluethundercreativegroup.com

depression? If they do, they are working outside their scopes of practice. In 2006, New York State adopted a law to regulate the mental health profession. It is now illegal for anyone to work with the public in the realm of changing emotions, testing psychological states, or working in general with core issues of psychological diagnoses. Is your doctor over-prescribing pain medications? Do they have any pending practice violations? Laws are tightening up this practice as well. Have you looked into any professional violations a gynecologist may have before your send your daughter there for the first time? That personal recommendation of a friend does not eliminate the need for you to do your due diligence in checking the practitioner’s ethics, credentials, and training. Call your state licensing board, do internet searches on the effectiveness of mind/ body modalities and how they are “certified” can put your mind at ease when choosing the right healthcare provider. • Marianne LiBretto, L.H.M.C., president of BioLogical Wellness, is a NYS licensed psychotherapist and emotional intelligence success coach and board member for Long Island Women’s Agenda, 516- 997-5852.

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health trends BEAUTY TRENDS

summertime antidotes you will want to share by Dr. Stephen Atkins

Are you a mosquito magnet? As odd as it sounds, some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others. You sit outside in the evening and the battle begins. So, why are some people always the lucky ones? Well, the answer might surprise you. Mosquitoes are attracted to mild acids, that means CO2 and lactic acid. We can’t do much about the CO2 we give off as we breathe, but we can do something about excess lactic acid.

A diet high in refined carbohydrates naturally depletes B vitamins and trace minerals. This promotes an increase in lactic acid. Since the blood can only handle so much, the body uses the skin as a source of elimination. So how do we turn off the mosquito magnet? Obviously, we want to reduce refined carbs and bad fats and supplement with a B complex that is high in thiamin. You will not only have less swatting on those summer nights, but you will have more energy all day long.

another summertime fact One double-blind studyshowed proteolytic enzymes will significantly reduce skin temperatures. If you do get a sunburn, take a therapeutic dose on an empty stomach and you will be surprised how much better you feel the next day. Here’s another tip, one for people that sunburn easily. Increasing sunlight will increase vitamin D which will pull calcium out of tissues making them more susceptible to burning. When you know you will be getting a lot of sun, especially early in the season, increase supplemental calcium and essential fatty acids. Keep in mind, the skin is a major absorptive organ. Don’t put anything on your skin that

you wouldn’t be willing to drink, because our skin is in effect drinking all the lotions and potions that we put on. Our liver will ultimately have to break down all those chemicals we layer on trying to get that summer tan. Be aware, many of the moisturizers designed for after-tanning are also chemical-based. Instead, after a days’ tanning, use a food grade Essential Fatty Acid after your shower.

• Dr. Stephen Atkins, PhD - Atkins Wellness Solutions, Nutritional Consultants, atkinswellnesssolutions.com, 631-470-2499 22

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A FASTER SPECTACULAR SMILE by Dr. Inna Gellerman Advances in the science of orthodontics, robotics and imaging led to the development of a state-of-the-art braces system known as SureSmile ® . If you want a faster spectacular smile, SureSmile ® is the answer. An image scanner creates 3D images of the teeth, which are viewed on a monitor from every angle possible with unprecedented accuracy. The orthodontist can see the teeth and how they fit together from any angle. The orthodontist applies the brackets, and then the robotic system uses the images and a software system that processes complex mathematical calculations to shape the archwires. These archwires are made of copper nickel titanium, a special metal that permanently retains each patient’s individual prescription and are activated by the patient’s body heat. This metal could not be used for braces in the past because it has to be brought to extremely high temperatures to be shaped. The robotic system can work with the high temperatures and bend the metal more precisely than a human hand. This high degree of precision of the archwires moves teeth more efficiently and directly to their proper place. Because of the high degree of precision, your smile will be spectacular faster – in some cases, up to 40% faster than conventional braces. SureSmile ® also means fewer office visits and faster results. Dr. Inna Gellerman is the only orthodontist on Long Island who offers SureSmile ® . She has taken special advanced training and education on the system, which includes both clinical training, software and equipment education. • Dr. Inna Gellerman - Spectacular Smiles Children & Adult Orthodontics 631-427-8444, drgellerman.com

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organic strawberries - 5 reasons to eat more! by Jo Ann Bellistri Everyone loves strawberries! They are the most popular berry in the world. Strawberries are more than just sweet, juicy and delicious; they are nutrient-packed powerhouses. Unfortunately, conventionally grown strawberries are on the Environmental Working Group’s list of the 12 foods in which pesticide residues have been most frequently found. So, go organic and enjoy strawberries at the peak of their season, from April through July when they are most delicious and abundant.

spinach salad with sliced strawberries 1 bunch baby spinach 10 organic strawberries, sliced ½ cup toasted, sliced almonds Toss with a tablespoon of olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Enjoy!

Besides the heavenly taste, here are my top 5 reasons to eat more strawberries: 1. Weight Management: These berries are low in calories and high in fiber, and help to keep your digestion regular. 2. Immunity Booster: A ½ cup serving of strawberries contains over 50 mg of vitamin C, which is half your daily requirement. 3. Anti-Cancer: Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants that help neutralize free-radical damage to your cells. 4. Anti-Inflammatory: A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health showed that women, who ate 16 or more strawberries per week, were 14% less likely to have inflammation in the body. 5. Healthy Eyes: The vitamin C in strawberries helps protect your eyes from free-radical damage caused by the sun and also strengthens your cornea, retina and helps prevent cataracts.

• Jo Ann Bellistri All That Wellness allthatwellness.com 516-769-7602

fantastic facts about quinoa by Michael Tack By now we have all heard of the protein enriched grain known as quinoa. If not, let me bring you up to speed. Besides being a closing game changer in “Words With Friends”, quinoa, a “supergrain”, has high nutritional value and provides your diet with all of the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It is an important part of a vegetarian diet due to the inadequacy of certain amino acids from plant sources. It is also glutenfree, high in vitamin B3 (niacin) vitamin B6, and iron. The calcium source is also a great benefit to those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. One half-cup of cooked quinoa yields 2g fat, 4g protein, 19 carbs, 2.5g fiber all at about 100 calories…BOOMING!

Now this is my favorite part of what the ancient Incas called the “Mother Grain”. Quinoa is prepared the same way as you would prepare rice (boil in water and serve), only when stored, it does not get that hard texture the next day in the refrigerator that forces you to discard the leftovers. So you can make more than a meal’s worth and store the rest for the next day. What can be more convenient for a busy, hard working mother, who does not have the time to prepare food every day…BOOMING! Traditionally, quinoa is served as a side dish much like potatoes and rice. However, we are not traditional, we are creative and innovative, are we not? What if we can take this nutritious wonder-food and design a healthy dessert or even a breakfast that can send the kids off to school or you to work with a mind and body ready to go… you said it…BOOMING! Now you are starting to think like me! By taking a little leftover quinoa and adding honey or maple syrup to sweeten to taste, some mixed chopped berries (raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries), 1/2 banana, and even come chopped nuts like almonds can create a great tasting healthy hot cereal, and what could be more simple in an early a.m. rush. As always, try to purchase certified organic foods free of free radicals and pesticides, and help support your local farms when possible. Buying local organic products are fresher and healthier for your body systems and good for our local economy. To find a local organic farm near you visit lifb.com. • Mikey T - Certified personal trainer ISSA and ISFA. PTMikeyT@yahoo.com, 631-219-0840

nutritiontrends chocolate with benefits

by Roxanne Browning The former guilty pleasure is no longer guilty of adding fat to your thighs; in fact, in moderation, it can help take it off! The “food of the gods” branded by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs is a “Super Food,” beneficial to your health in many ways. Life’s too short to eat bad chocolate!

how good fats are good for you The cocoa butter in chocolate is turned into a heart-healthy MonoUnsaturated Fatty Acid “MUFA” in your body just like olive oil. MUFAs are unsaturated fats that are flexible, easily glide through the bloodstream to help unclog and protect arteries from building up. Only handcrafted dark chocolate with cacao content of 70% or greater, not massproduced chocolate with additives or milk.

boost good cholesterol and reduces inflammation Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants called flavanols that boost good HDL cholesterol, and reduces the harmful effects of LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Flavonoids are plant pigments found in dark green vegetables, berries, green tea, chocolate, nuts, and red wine. Antioxidants help the body’s cells resist damage caused by free radicals. An anti-inflammatory, that offers powerful protection against cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other diseases.

weight control Olive oil, olives, avocados, nuts and seeds, and dark chocolate; the most beloved MUFAs in the good fat family. Eating these rich MUFA’s at and in between meals is the key to reducing your appetite. However, it’s not a license to consume an entire chocolate bar, a little goes a long way, mindfully savor 2-3 squares a day. Cortisol, the underlying enemy that causes stress eating, simulates the appetite but specifically induces cravings for sugar and fat. MUFAs will help reduce those cravings. Youthful looking skin is another bonus to eating foods rich in MUFAs, part of an anti-aging regimen. • Roxanne Browning Chocolate Sommelier exoticchocolatetasting.com

chocolate quinoa cake

by Michael Tack Attention chocolate lovers! We are BOOMING up your dessert with our magic grain by adding a little sweet sin. Quinoa meets cocoa is tonight’s main event. This recipe is very simple, easy to make, and as always there are healthy alternatives to the ingredients. 2/3 cup quinoa 1 1/3 cup water 1/3 cup milk (almond milk or low-fat milk can be used) 4 large eggs (or 6 egg whites) 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 3/4 cup butter (or ¾ cup apple sauce) 1 1/2 cups sugar (or 1 cup cooking Splenda, not the coffee packets) 1 cup cocoa powder 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt Boil up quinoa in water as normal in 2:1 ratio water to quinoa in a saucepan. Reduce the heat and cover until quinoa is tender, should be about 10 minutes. Fluff up with a fork and set aside covered to cool. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray cake pan with non-stick spray, I use two 8-inch round pans to make a double layer cake, because I have to BOOM everything up! Why not, right?! Combine milk, eggs, vanilla, and butter with 2 cups cooked quinoa and continue to blend until smooth. Add your healthy alternatives if you choose, like egg whites, applesauce, and almond milk. Mix in sugar or Splenda, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the quinoa mix. Pour evenly between the sprayed pans and bake on the center oven rack for 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. When done, let cake cool completely in the pan before removing and decorating. Frost as desired. I love chocolate, so I double it up and add chocolate frosting…BOOMING for the taste buds. • Mikey T - PTmikeyT@yahoo.com

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& h t l a he n o i t i r nut

by Jo Ann Bellistri The new school year is the perfect time to make nutritional changes that help your kids start each day better nourished, better energized and better focused. Food plays a major role in mood disorders. Stress, trauma and diet contribute to anxiety and depression. Diet is the easiest factor to adjust, but most people have no idea that food and mood are so directly linked. Nutrition is the first step in controlling negative moods. Foods that stabilize mood and help build a better brain: • Whole Grains: Oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, etc. Healthy carbohydrates can increase serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood. • Lean Protein: Turkey and chicken are good sources of amino acids, which helps with depression, anxiety and coping with stress. • Pasture Raised Eggs: Maybe the perfect breakfast. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (which affect neurotransmitter pathways to the brain), zinc, B vitamins and iodide. • Fruits & Vegetables: High in magnesium which helps to boost energy levels and maintain mental clarity. Rich in nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals that promote brain function. • Greek Yogurt: Rich in calcium that alerts your brain to release mood boosting neurotransmitters. • Seafood: Selenium-rich foods help with energy and stamina by balancing the adrenal gland. • Nuts and Seeds: Magnesium and selenium are two minerals that aid in brain function and energy. Nuts and seeds contain both. • Water: Dehydration is a common, but overlooked cause of fatigue. • Dark Chocolate: Instant mood booster that helps with concentration and improves the blood flow to the brain. Foods that trigger negative moods: • Sugar: Robs the body of essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes. It increases hyperactivity by preventing blood sugar levels from remaining stable. Eliminating or reducing refined sugar in the diet can increase mental energy and memory. • Additives: Artificial colors and flavors can increase distraction and decrease mental clarity. Eliminating artificial colors and flavors from the diet has shown to decrease symptoms in children with ADD. Eat fresh, whole foods and avoid processed foods. • Hydrogenated Oils: Found in processed foods, these trans-fats inhibit healthy nerve function. Eliminating hydrogenated oils can lead to improved brain function, memory and mental clarity. • Too Much Caffeine: Excessive caffeine can exacerbate depression in some people. It can lead to insomnia which can have a negative effect on mood and energy. • Jo Ann Bellistri - All That Wellness, allthatwellness.com, 516-769-7602

by Colleen Simon It’s that time of year again. Get out the backpack and lunch box for the new school year. As a parent, it can be stressful to nourish our children before, during and after school. The following tips will help guide you to help your child make healthy choices. Don’t skip breakfast. It is still the most important meal of the day and can impact your child’s ability to concentrate at school. Avoid sugary foods and incorporate more protein-enriched foods for breakfast. This would include eggs, cheese, beans, leftover meat and veggies. Think dinner for breakfast. With our busy schedules it can be difficult, but try to make lunch daily. Think outside the box when preparing lunch and get the kids involved. Include a variety of items in small portions to help teach your child portion control. Some fun ideas for lunch include mini-pizzas, apple wedges and peanut butter, fresh fruit, raw veggies with yogurt dip, edamame, sliced cheese with whole grain crackers, olives or no-nitrate cold cuts. Make it colorful, make it fun. As unhealthy as school lunch can be, instead of outlawing the school lunch program, limit the number of times they are purchased. Educate your child as to why certain lunches are not healthy. Have a healthy snack ready for them after school. Have plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds available, and they will go right for them. Limit processed packaged foods and replace with more nutritional snacks. Because of our very busy schedules, it’s not always easy to cook wellbalanced meals. For this reason it is important to supplement with a daily multivitamin at breakfast. Also keep in mind that vitamin C plays an important role in boosting your child’s immune system, and vitamin D for strong bones. Help your child be the best they can be with optimum nutrition. • Colleen Simon - Health Hutt Inc. 631-615-2179, healthhuttinc.com

the affordable care act impacts EVERYONE what has the ACA done for you lately? by Susan M. Montana The Affordable Care Act (aka ObamaCare) was developed in 2008, fine-tuned during 2009, and began implementation in 2010. Changes are scheduled to continue occurring through 2014, but are you aware of what has already come to pass? The legislation itself is very complex. To many, it’s simply a political issue-you’re either for or against it. But I’d like to suggest people look past the politics to understand what it has meant to them personally so far, and to make sure they’ve taken advantage of all possible opportunities. Very rarely does something happen in our society that impacts virtually every person in some way. Like it or not, the ACA is going to affect you whether you: • work for a healthcare provider (perhaps the largest employer segment on Long Island) • work for an insurance company or government entity that provides health benefits • are an employee (with or without employer provided health insurance) • have a serious medical condition • have, or know someone who has, suffered a healthcare financial crisis

Patients, providers, insurers and government entities have made many changes to implement the new rules and benefits already. Which of these has impacted you or someone you know? • Extension of healthcare benefits to young adults up to age 26 • Children under 19 cannot be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions • Elimination of patient co-pays for preventative care services and screenings, such as mammograms, cancer screenings, and colonoscopies • Medicare beneficiaries have gotten some relief from the dreaded prescription drug coverage ‘donut hole’ • Insurance plans are available to Americans with preexisting conditions (see www.PCIP.gov) Patients, be sure to take advantage of all these opportunities. Medical providers, make sure your systems are up to date, and your staff can effectively engage in patient discussions. If you need help, reach out to a qualified Practice Management Consultant. • Susan M. Montana, sue@habaneroinc.com 631-244-5661, habaneroinc.com

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Tak akIng a by Hillary Call

This summer The he DigniTy for All sTuDenTs AcT (DAsA), new york sTATe’s AnTi-bullying wenT i-bullying lAw, Aw, wen A T inTo effecT–jusT in Time for The new school yeAr. r. DAsA Aims To PuT An An enD enD To To hArAssmenT hArAssmen hA ssmenT T AnD An D D DiscriminATion iscriminAT iscrimin ATion ion bA b bAseD Ase seD D on rAce, ce, color, weighT, nATionAl origin, eThnic grouP, religion, DisAbiliTy, sexuAl l orienTATion, genDer or sex. VerbAl ThreATs, inTimiDATion AnD Abuse Are All coVereD unDer DAsA, wiTh The hoPe of giVing ing our chilDren A s sAfe Afe eDucATionAl enVironmenT.

DAsA prohibits harassment and discrimination while on school property or grounds–by employees and students. Another key aspect of DASA is that it defined “harassment” to help schools understand exactly what actions are prohibited. harassment is the creation of a hostile environment by conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that could unreasonably interfere with educational performance, opportunities, benefits or physical or emotional well-being or cause fear for physical safety. Public and elementary school students are protected under DAsA, which also requires that schools amend their code of conduct to incorporate DAsA’s intents. further, administrators are mandated to report bullying or harassment to the nys Department of education. Do you know what your child is doing online, or in school? educating kids about their own behavior is important, too. • Hillary Call, licc Volunteer 28

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Learn more about how to protect your children from bullying at LongIslandCrisisCenter.org, or speak to a counselor at 516-679-1111

a ST STanD to protect our children

by Dr. Laura Ness

In this country, a report of child abuse is made every ten seconds. One such report is child sexual abuse. Statistics suggest that 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. as staggering as these statistics are, it is important to note that the number of instances of sexual abuse that go unreported are even greater because children are afraid to disclose the abuse. Increasing evidence indicates that childhood sexual abuse can have severe mental health consequences. Many children who have been sexually abused exhibit a variety of abrupt physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. However, some children may show no signs at all. The following are examples of behaviors which may warrant immediate attention: explosive anger, anxiety, depression, bed wetting, nightmares, sleep and/or appetite changes, isolation, infections, selfmutilation, not wanting to go with or stay with a particular individual, sudden discomfort sitting next to someone who has never been an issue before, speaking about an imaginary villain or friend who does bad things and inappropriate sexual behavior, such as masturbation (which, in young children, can look like rubbing and moving their legs together rapidly.) If you think that this cannot happen to your child, think again. If you believe a child abuser looks like a scary man who lurks around the school playground, then you are sadly mistaken. Perpetrators of sexual abuse can be family members, close friends, babysitters, women and same age or older children as well. In fact, more than 90% of child sexual abuse victims know their perpetrator. If you suspect your child is being sexually abused, contact Child Protective Services 1-800-3423720, or a mental health professional immediately. Please pay attention to your child’s behavior and listen to what it is telling you. Sometimes acting out is a child’s way of communicating. Don’t ignore it! • Dr. Laura Ness - Psychologist, PsyD, 631-892-6108 august 2012

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MAKING

DIFFERENCE Maria Michta: Long Island Olympian

By Rosemarie Kluepfel Maria Michta, a Long Island native from Nesconset, has dreamed of being an Olympian for 16 years. This July, it became a reality when she made the USA Olympic team for Race Walking. Her motto has always been, “Dream, Believe, Become”. She’s had the Dream since watching the 1996 Olympics; she truly began to Believe in herself in 2010 and has trained to her fullest to Become an Olympian! She has raced in 11 countries and 4 continents but all eyes will be on London this August when she will compete in the 20K Race Walk in the 2012 Olympics. Recently, I was able to interview Maria. Here are excerpts from the interview:

Q : When did you start race walking? A : I began race walking as a freshman at Sachem High School.

I went out for the winter track team to stay in shape between the fall soccer season and spring lacrosse season. As a freshman new to track I was required to try every field event. I had a natural talent for race walking. I decided to stick with it and by the end of my freshman winter season I had qualified for Nationals. I never wound up going out for Lacrosse and did spring track instead. The following fall I ran cross country instead of playing soccer.

Q : When did you realize you could compete at the Olympic level?

A : Back as early as high school I believed I could race walk at

the Olympic level. I truly began to believe in myself when I won my first indoor 3,000m National Title in 2010. From 2010 on I never doubted my abilities, and continued to believe every second of each of my 50 laps around the track during my race at Olympic Trials.

Q : What is your advice to those who are interested, or have just started, race walking?

A : Many people mock the event because they think it’s “just

walking”. However, race walking is just as physically taxing as running at the elite level, after all a Woman’s Olympic A Standard requires an athlete to average 7:30 pace for 12.4miles straight. Another reason for people to consider giving race walking a try is because it’s less strenuous on the joints because you don’t have the repeated pounding that occurs in running. Also the biomechanics of race walking really engage the core muscles and are a great way to tone up the mid section. For those who have just started with race walking remember that it is an event that takes time and repeated practice before feeling fluid and natural. Often 6-12months are required before the biomechanics of race walking feel natural and not forced. After the stride of race walking feels smooth and fluid, an athlete will usually see large improvements in her race times. Visit: MariaMichta.com for more information on Maria’s journey.

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“Excellence and Equity in Our Schools” by Kelly Fallon, Superintendent Half Hollow Hills Central School District

Letter From The Superintendent: As superintendent it is my responsibility to be sure that the focus of the Half Hollow Hills Central School District remains on teaching and learning. While committing to this focus attention must be given to establishing the Vision of Learning for the district. This vision must promote the success of all students by facilitating the development, articulation, implementation and stewardship of a vision of learning that is shared and supported by the school community. As superintendent, while promoting the success of all students, concentration must be given to the culture of teaching and learning, the management of learning, relationships with the broader community, the political, social, economic, legal and cultural context of learning as well as ensuring that the district operates with integrity and fairness; and in an ethical manner.

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The notion of “family” was ingrained in each of us from an early age. I was the youngest of four children and our parents showered each of us with unconditional love. My father, a decorated WWII veteran, worked as a machine toolist at Grumman Aerospace. My mother alternated between driving a nursery school bus and working in our elementary school. These positions allowed her to be at home when there was no school. Although our family was in a modest income bracket, we felt we had everything we desired. Recalling traveling on our summer vacation, huddled in the back of a Volkswagen minivan, brings back pleasant memories and warm feelings. My family gave me a foundation in values and a deep respect for the sanctity of each human being. My older brother was born with special needs and my parents provided the love and support for him throughout their lives. These qualities instilled by my parents made me want to help others by becoming a teacher. Early childhood education was my first love. I did my student teaching in kindergarten and was offered a position at that school. After five years teaching kindergarten, I was assigned to teach a grade one class. I was appointed as Summer School Principal and after that experience decided to pursue education administration. After obtaining positions as Assistant Principal and Principal, I applied to work in a district with an excellent reputation. I was appointed as Principal of Paumanok Elementary School in 1995 in the Half Hollow Hills Central School District. The parents,

teachers, students and I formed a special bond that I continue to treasure today. After five years at Paumanok, I assumed the role of Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. My work with teachers and administrators allowed me to develop a shared vision of Excellence and Equity. In 2001, the Superintendent requested that I move to a new role, Assistant Superintendent for Districtwide Administration. I was responsible for Human Resources, professional development, contract negotiations and other personnel matters. Effective educational leadership, whether in the role of Superintendent or other administrator, requires a vision to ensure the focus remains on the students and their individual needs. Developing a culture of Excellence fosters the need in each faculty member to demand the best from every student. The ability to foster the commitment to Equity requires each person to believe that “…all children can learn...” and will learn, regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic status. I have been blessed with strong personal family relationships. My husband is my strongest supporter. He and my daughters were present when I was appointed as Superintendent of Schools. It meant a great deal to both of us to have our daughters see their mother achieve in her career. Also, I’ll never be able to thank my parents enough for their love and support. It will always be very special to me that our children were cared for by their grandparents as I pursued my career. The bond between our children and their grandparents is one that will last forever. As long as I feel that I can contribute to the lives of students in the Half Hollow Hills School District, and watch as my own children blossom, I feel that “…I have it all!” I know I have been truly blessed.

the search for vera continues

by Maryann & Robert E. DeSimone We knew that our three daughters, Katia, Darya and Irina would always feel incomplete as long as their sister Vera was missing from their lives. Questions of where she was, if she was okay, if she knew that she had three sisters in the U.S. would continue to echo in their heads throughout their lives. We also knew a search would be difficult but knew we had to at least try. We already knew the name of the village where the girls were born was Mazharka in the Kardiv Region of the Ukraine and that the girls’ last name was Segeda. We hired Olga, a translator and investigator in hopes of a successful reunion of Vera and the girls. During our search, we located their biological father who lived 13 hours northeast of Kiev, out in the countryside amongst beautiful landscapes of farms and pastoral villages. He said “bring me my daughters, and I will tell them where Vera is”, he promised. So we made the long trip with the girls. Shortly after we arrived, we stopped for sweets because the girls wanted to bring

their aunt and uncle a gift for hosting us. At the local store, the three girls were recognized and word of our arrival traveled quickly. It seemed that everyone from the village was excited and in disbelief to see the girls again. The children the girls had grown up with had come running from out of the fields they worked in or the village roads from their homes. The village Mayor was also in tears to see them again. He was the one that had to remove them from their home some 9 years ago and send them to the orphanage because of the conditions they were living in. He was so concerned the girls may have disliked or been angry with him for what he felt he needed to do to protect them from their fathers behaviors, but the girls remembered him well and hugged and kissed him in forgiveness and great thanks! He transformed in their arms and the healing began! Later at their aunt and uncle’s home, they saw their biological father. Our translator was trying so hard to keep up with the girls’ inquiries. Their father was not very responsive or talkative. I could see the overwhelming and mixed feelings he was experiencing. Eventually, I pulled the translator aside and had her ask their father and the girls to take a short walk down the road to a hay field where they could have some privacy and quiet to talk. I also took the girls aside and let them know that this would be the right time to make their request for him to bring them to Vera. Olga our translator spoke after they asked in English and then waited for what seemed an eternity for him to answer them. He shook his head yes and mumbled something. Olga said he said yes, tomorrow morning. The girls and I were so excited and with building anticipation. The sun couldn’t go down and rise again soon enough! The Search for Vera continues, read on next month… FindingVera.com.

motivational tips to help you dream big by Paula Klee Parish In talking with one of my clients recently, the conversation left me wondering, “What can I do to foster the advice I had offered?”I decided to turn the conversation into an article. Here is what I came up with. I hope you like it… Articulate your dream. How can you achieve it if you don’t know what it is? Be very specific. If you hate your job and you want to change jobs, do some serious soul searching and figure out what your dream job would look like. Where would you be? What would your office look like? Who would you work with? What would you do? What would you wear to work? How often would you be working? What would you eat for lunch? Be as detailed as you possibly can. You’ll be surprised how much you’ll learn just by asking yourself these questions. Write down your answers, so you can reference them later. The writing down is very

important! Answer this one question: “What would you do if you took fear out of the equation?” My husband once asked me that, and I tell you, it changed my life. It helped me bypass all the bull… so I could whittle decisions down to their essence. What I realized was that I was not living my dream because I was desperately afraid- of financial ruin, of failure, of letting people down, of regret, even of success. Asking this question helped me separate the fear from the dream, and in doing so, I realized that I really wanted to move forward, in spite of the fear. The question helped me identify the fears and determine whether they deserved as much power as I was giving them. That way, I could address the fears separately. Do I still worry about those fears? You bet! Sometimes I have those dark nights ruminating at 3am when I’m overcome with them. But do I let them rule my choices anymore? Nope. • Paula Klee Parish- Social & Community Psychology and Master Life Coach. paula@paulakleeparish.com, performancesolutions.biz

august 2012

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home trends BEAUTY TRENDS

hot mid-late summer gardens By Mary Rosenvinge Spring and early summer is a time for great extravagance in our gardens. We enjoy a continuously changing and often breath-taking display of flowering trees and shrubs, daffodils, tulips, peonies, iris, lupines, roses, and so many more. However, as Spring gives way to warmer weather, many gardens seem less exuberant and many people rely on annuals to keep the color going into fall. There’s nothing wrong with annuals–especially if you experiment with more than just the usual impatiens and begonias! But there are also many often missed opportunities to keep the parade of perennial color going right into fall with plants that bloom later in the season. Save space in your landscape for wonderful late summer and early fall perennials, (they’ll come back bigger and better every year). Here are some great perennial plants, trees and shrubs that I highly recommend for mid–late season bloom. Tall garden phlox bloom for months (select a variety resistant to mildew like “David”), perennial hibiscus blooms are up to 8” across and available in many colors. Red and blue lobelia are especially lovely near Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susans) and Coreopsis, which lend good yellow and orange color for a long season. Many new and old varieties of Echinacea (coneflowers) have become widely available–a new favorite of mine is called “Tomato Soup”, which says everything about its coloration! Asters and Anemones (anemones even enjoy shade) bring wonderful color just when you think the show is over. Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle trees and shrubs) are now hardy for our USDA zone and also lend fabulous color in late summer, along with hydrangea paniculata, Montauk daisies and Abelia shrubs.

So be daring, and add a few of these treasures to your garden this year. You’ll enjoy them for many years to come! Happy Planting! • Mary Rosenvinge- Garden Rooms and Landscapes, Northport 631-754-8065, gardenroomslandscapes.com

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VA Loans: giving our veterans a place to call home By Rosemarie Kluepfel Soldiers have been the cornerstone of our country since the revolutionary war. On the backs of our soldiers, borders have been drawn, freedoms bestowed and ideals upheld. The number of veterans in recent years has once again mounted as 9/11 counter-terrorism forces and the long term occupancy in Iraq and Afghanistan has led to a high demand of enlisted men and women to stand guard and protect. Whether these veterans return home from overseas or their local military base, they deserve to have a place to call home. With a VA guaranteed loan, some veterans are able to purchase homes as their primary residence with no down payment if they meet the criteria as determined by Department of Veterans Affairs and have the credit and income to qualify. A lender who participates in the VA home loan program can help the veteran or active duty personnel determine if they qualify by requesting a Certificate of Eligibility For Home Loan Benefits. Since a VA loan is guaranteed in case the lender incurs a loss, the veteran does not have to purchase private mortgage insurance, but there is a VA Funding Fee. The VA doesn’t specify a maximum loan amount but the law does set limits on the amount of liability the VA can assume. This usually affects the amount of money an institution will lend you. The lender may be able to increase the size of the loan if you can make a down payment. Also, while the program does not set the closing costs, it does set limits on what can be charged. A portion of the closing costs may even be paid by the seller in certain circumstances. There is also no pre-payment penalty if the loan is paid off early. The loan application and underwriting process and interest rate are left to the individual lender, as the VA rarely gets involved. Unmarried spouses of veterans who died on active duty or as a result of a service-related disability are also eligible. In addition, a surviving spouse who obtained a VA home loan with the veteran prior to his or her death may obtain an interest rate reduction refinance loan. The VA may also be able to provide assistance if the veteran runs into difficulty making the payments. VA-backed loans are also assumable as long as the person assuming the loan qualifies. To determine if a VA Guaranteed Home Loan is right for you as a veteran or active duty personnel, consult a licensed loan originator that is versed in VA loans. • Rosemarie Kluepfel Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp. 631-662-4576, rosemariek@fairwaymc.com

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By Lisa Albinowski Your real estate agent has the power to grant many of your wishes for your Dream Home! What’s on your list? Price: How much can you afford? You must see a Mortgage Professional and get pre-approved so your agent can focus on homes in your price range. When calculating affordability it’s not just about price, real estate taxes are incorporated into the formula as well. Location: “Location, Location, Location”… as the saying goes. This is one of the most important factors when it comes to the saleability and pricing of a home, and it’s a good place to start when making your wish list. neighborhood: If you are looking for a family home, then you need to research the local schools. Is there a particular school district you want to be in, or perhaps to stay in? Do you want a neighborhood within walking distance to shopping and restaurants? home StyLeS: Do you prefer a single family home, condo, co-op, multi family home? One or two stories? home FeatureS: What do you desire most? Open floor plan? Eat-in-kitchen, formal dining room, master bathroom, porch, deck, garage, basement or a pool? condition: Do you want a home that has updated kitchens and/or bathrooms? Are you willing to purchase a fixer-upper? Can you do some work yourself or do you need to hire professionals to assist, at what cost? muSt haveS vS. nice to haveS: Knowing your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves is a key element to house shopping. As you begin to preview houses, you will be able to determine what you must have and what would be nice to have. You will then be able to make some compromises on your list. Separating your must-haves from your nice-to-haves lets you decide where you can compromise to meet your budget and find your Dream Home. • Lisa Albinowski Licensed Real Estate Broker, SRES, CBR Realty Connect, Lisa@lisabroker.com, 631-793-7329

modular construction:

faster, “greener”, and more cost efficient Planning on a new home or renovation to your existing home? Have you considered modular construction? Why not? Modular homes and additions are built indoors in a climate-controlled manufacturing facility. They are then shipped to your site and assembled by a trained crew. A local contractor will prepare for the modular components and complete the required finish work after the assembly (“Set”). So, how do you select the right modular company and local contractor? Modular manufacturers typically are licensed in certain states. They would be familiar with local zoning, transportation costs and logistics, and the labor for the “Set”. A modular company from the Midwest may not be approved or choose to deliver to Long Island. Companies doing work on Long Island must be familiar with the limited access over our bridges, working with local authorities who control the roads and our local building codes. Choose a company for your needs. Some companies

will build only their designs or offer limited customizing, others routinely build complete custom designs. In choosing your local contractor, they should be familiar and comfortable working with modular construction. They should have relationships with the manufacturers and be able to package the entire project for you, known as a “turnkey” project. In the end, a modular home or addition will be identical to a traditional “stick” built project. Only it will be built greener, faster, stronger and less expensive. • cedarknollshomes.com 631-231-1518

august 2012

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happy, h by Jodi Record

mans best friend

Lots of love to give! Dog: WALKER - Hound Mix. Adult, male large. CAT: JEANNIE - Domestic short hair. Adult female. To learn more about how to adopt WALKER and JEANNIE, go to LittleShelter.com

Get help, volunteer or donate: LITTLE SHELTER 33 Warner Road, Huntington 631-368-8770, www.littleshelter.com

Wine and dogs…two of a Long Island woman’s most favorite things. Now with great weather upon us, the question is how to incorporate the love of ‘woman’s best friend’ with the love of the vine. Wonder no more! Long Island boasts some spectacular wineries, and did you know that many are pet friendly! Martha Clara Vineyards in Riverhead is a dog lover’s delight! Not only are dogs welcome anywhere on the grounds, including the tasting room, but Martha Clara also hosts a regular Vines and Canines Educational Vineyard Walk led by winemaker Juan MicieliMartinez and his adopted pooch. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Continue exploring the wine trail with your furry friend and enjoy tastings at Bedell Cellars, Paumanok Vineyards, Pindar Vineyards, Duck Walk Vineyards and many other wonderful wine destinations on Long Island’s east end! And while you’re ‘vineyard hopping’ and enjoying a sip or two of red or white, remember to pack some water and a dish to make sure Fido can quench his thirst as well.

beach babies It’s no secret that it’s difficult to find a dog friendly beach during the time of year when you’re yearning to get out and enjoy some sun, surf and sand with your furry friend, but that’s where we can help! Dog owners are all too often confronted with the ‘NO DOGS ALLOWED’ or ‘Dogs allowed Sept 1 – April 30’ signs, but this summer you can breathe a sigh of relief. Long Island beaches that do welcome our four-legged companions do exist, and they’re much closer than you think. Smith Point County Park in Shirley allows dogs everywhere except between the flags, you’ll be sure to find an abundance of pooches frolicking in the water off the beach of Gardiner County Park in West Islip, and several beaches in the Hamptons allow dogs early in the morning and later in the evening. So don’t despair this summer! Your dog can revel in being the beach bum he’s always wanted to be! And remember, while you’re enjoying Long Island’s beaches, please be respectful to other beach-goers and clean up after your pet. • Jodi Record Volunteer, Jessie’s Hope For Dogs

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healthy pets molly’s smile by Bettie Hamilton My dogs have a great life since I oversee Product Development for Halo, Purely for Pets. What pet wouldn’t, having the opportunity to try out new food, treats, beds and toys. I was very busy this Spring, and one of my favorite new items is a rich and creamy mixture of shredded roasted chicken and chickpeas, called Spot’s Choice. This nutritious mixture provides a hearty change to our daily menu. But more importantly, as a wet diet, it will be a staple for my beagle when she transitions from crunchy kibble to softer food following dental work. Since my Molly is an older girl and has had some teeth removed, dental care is very important. Subtle signs that a dental check is needed include intense breath, bleeding gums, or tartar-stained teeth. Following Molly’s recent cleaning, I’m now more focused than ever on how to keep her teeth clean. I will encourage her to chew, since the abrasive action of chewing a hard treat helps keep teeth clean. Natural bones are too hard for her, so edible dental treats are more suitable choice. My favorites are Halo’s Spots’ Chew in either Minty Fresh or Yummy Pumpkin flavors. These natural chews smell terrific, and have healthy ingredients such as chia, a tiny seed known to help promote cardiovascular health, digestion and with its high fiber content may even inhibit hunger to help support weight loss. Managing food portions, daily calories and the frequency of eating is a healthy practice. Molly, although gray around the eyes, now has a sparkling clean mouth and waistline. • Bettie Hamilton - Halo Purely for Pets, halopets.com

august 2012

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Summertime Autocare By Kevin Albinowski Did you know that temperature is very harsh on your vehicle? When we think of summer maintenance we think most often of our cooling system. Well, that’s only one small piece of the equation. Today, I will be mentioning many services you need to pay attention to. You see, your under-the-hood temperatures get extremely high. If you ever opened your hood after a drive, you can imagine how your vehicle systems must be stressed. Heat is number one for damaging any part that is lubricated. That would be transmission, engine, seals and gaskets, cooling system, hoses, belts, power steering, brake fluid, gear oils, and differential oils. Let’s not forget the battery and air conditioning system all get stressed to the max. Make sure you ask your technician if, or when you need these fluids or components replaced or inspected, so as not to allow your lubricated parts to wear out prematurely. It would be less expensive to service a system than to replace those parts. If you don’t want to get stranded on the side of the road, maintain your vehicle well. Many of us have been stranded at one time or another. Don’t let it be you. • Kevin Albinowski President: Keystone Tire & Auto Repair Inc. keystonetireauto.com, caresforcars.org Kevin@keystonetireauto.com 631-957-8473

Cruising Reunions

By Carol Nucci Summer. Think sun, fun and family. Families often see each other for happy occasions such as weddings or unfortunately, sad events. That’s when everyone says “we should plan a family gathering”. Summer is half over, so it may be too late to plan that big reunion for this year, so let’s plan ahead for next year. How about a reunion trip? What, you say? 24/7 with family for days on end? Are you crazy!? Well I have a great suggestion. A cruise! Cruising with family is a wonderful idea. There’s so much to do on a cruise ship. Activities from sunrise to the wee hours. Something for everyone, and

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if you want to just relax you can do that too. Most cruise lines offer children’s and teens’ programs. Babysitters are available when the adults want to step out for the evening. There are plenty of shore excursions and family activities— how about movies under the stars, complete with popcorn. That’s some kind of “drive in”! You get the best “bang for your buck” on cruise vacations! One price and you’re covered-food (and plenty of it), accommodations and entertainment. True, cabins aren’t huge unless you choose to splurge. Some great locations are Alaska, where special adventure excursions are available just for kids. If you need to curb prices, you can sail out of New York City. One-week cruises to Bermuda depart from May to October and there are some 4 or 5 day cruises to Canada, plus year-round cruises to the Caribbean. If you can’t get the gang together for a whole week, check with a travel agent for a long weekend or “cruise to nowhere”. I do suggest using the expertise of a professional-they really know the ins and outs especially when planning for a group. The idea that everyone can go at their own pace, do their own thing, and then gather for dinner to share the day’s adventures is priceless! Scheduling is often the most difficult aspect of planning a cruise family reunion. However, the trip will provide memories of a lifetime, for all generations, that are well worth it. • Carol Nucci- Longtime Huntington resident and world traveler

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• No repository for information required to defend against employee claims By Mary Simmons Employers are often cautious, or not knowledgeable enough to put their company policies and applicable employment laws in writing in an Employee Handbook. They should be very wary of this mistake. Not having their policies in writing can be much more detrimental to an organization, the morale of staff and their compliance with labor laws. Employee Handbooks give guidance to supervisors and managers, as well as staff, on pertinent issues such as what benefits they are entitled to, dress code and labor laws that may apply to them. The Handbook also helps new hires understand the culture of their company and the expectations management has of the employees. In short, the Employee Handbook is a necessity for an employer, big or small. The following are some examples of how a Handbook can protect a company:

• Inconsistent management because of unclear and illdefined direction Specifically, the following examples will make it clear how valuable an Employee Handbook can be: • Employee Handbooks are an excellent way to communicate current employment laws that are mandatory to inform your employees of. Employers may also choose to post many of these laws in employee lunch rooms, but having employees read and sign off on the receipt of an Employee Handbook will be more powerful when using it as a defense in court. • All companies, regardless of their size, are susceptible to liability. Many states have laws that an employer with a single employee must comply with anti-discrimination laws. Therefore, it is imperative for even the smallest of companies to create written, legally reviewed policies as part of their Handbook. • Statistics show that Employee Handbooks are valued by employees and create greater trust and understanding between employees and the company. Employee Handbooks can motivate employees, boost productivity and improve relations with the employer. • A properly drafted Employee Handbook will protect a company. More importantly, the Handbook can help the company position against claims concerning harassment, privacy issues, social media use and many other areas.

• Employee lawsuits, assisting in defense of your employment practices in court • Under-performance due to misunderstanding of expectations • Reduced profitability from unmotivated employees • Lack of consistent culture within the organization • An unsafe and legally non-compliant work environment 42

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• Employment claims often arise because employees perceive preferential treatment - real or otherwise. An Employee Handbook can provide clear guidelines to management and employees alike and will help minimize unfair practices and increase employees’ opinion of employers’ fairness. It is never too late to create or update your Employee Handbook, no matter what the size or age of your company. Written and legally reviewed documentation can significantly minimize liability and other risks and become your best protection. • Mary Simmons - Director of HR Consulting Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl & Associates, 631-689-6272

Dan Kim on Delivering an INCREDIBLE Customer Experience using Social Media and Technology by Laney Liner I had the EXTREME pleasure of interviewing Dan Kim, Founder and Chief Concept Officer of Red Mango®, Inc., to learn how his company delivers an incredible customer experience. A social media policy and best practices guide is prepared for each franchisee owner to ensure the Red Mango brand image and personality is consistent. They are encouraged to use social media for branding, to help their fans feel connected, to engage in conversation, etc. Samantha Goldsmith, Red Mango Franchisee Long Island, NY, said, “We want our customers to know we value their opinion and listen to them. We put polls on Facebook and make it fun for them and see what they like as a result.” Here’s a snapshot of my interview with Dan Kim:

: “Do you encourage people to follow you in the social media environment?”

: “Yes. I have three pages on Facebook: facebook.com/redmango focuses on the Red Mango brand. facebook.com/dankimredmango is geared towards what I do for the company - it is personality driven. I use it to communicate with people about store openings or about their good or bad brand experiences. Facebook.com/frozenyogurt is used for branding purposes and includes things that are of personal interest to me.”

: “What was the driving force for re-designing your website?”

: “We made the change this year in response to what I felt was a shift in the way people navigate and engage with websites. Our old site was heavy with animation and graphics. Now, it is simple, easy to navigate and works on multiple platforms.”

Q : “How have you used technology to build your loyalty program?”

: “Technology has been critical to that program. Our program allows us to understand who they are and what they buy. The system allows us to load coupons on a card which keeps the customer from having to print them out, making it a much more personal experience. This is only possible with technology.” Get to know Dan Kim. Follow him on Facebook and be the first to learn when the Mobile App they are creating will be available. Sweet! • Laney Liner - Owner of Blue Thunder Creative Group, Inc. follow Laney on Twitter@laneyliner, bluethundercreativegroup.com,

august 2012

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Alanna Ann: Zumba Fitness Instructor By Sara Fingerman

Q : What is the definition of Cystic Fibrosis? A : CF is a genetic life-threatening illness that affects the

lungs, pancreas, liver, and intestines. CF is characterized by abnormal epithelium, leading to secretions in lungs and sinuses.

Q : Were you born with Cystic Fibrosis? A : My parents found out I was born with CF when I was 6

months old. Both my parents carried the gene, which made it possible for their children to have a 50% chance of being born with it. I’m the only one in my whole family that has CF. Now, 21 years later, if both parents are carriers of CF, the baby will be tested before he/she is born.

Q : How many surgeries have you had? A : I am only 21 years old and have had over twenty

Q : How did you become a Zumba Instructor? A : I ended up falling in love with Zumba and would go twice

surgeries. On November 23rd 2009, I had the surgery that saved my life. I received a double lung transplant from an organ donor.

Q : What was it like to grow up with CF? A : As a child, I was very energetic and full of life. In my teen

years, my CF became progressively worse. I was hooked up to IVs and in and out of hospitals because I couldn’t breathe. During that time my parents, my sister Nicole and my friends would keep me company. They were there for me with love and moral support. I always trusted my doctors and knew they would save me, so I kept telling myself I was going to be okay. The years before my transplant I was on 15 liters of oxygen and I needed to use a bi-pap machine to sleep. At 18 years old I was down to 48 pounds-I needed the transplant urgently. Luckily it happened! After the transplant I took my first breath and it felt amazing. I was in physical therapy for the next year and now I’m strong enough to dance!

a day and up to six times a week. In 2011 I decided to get certified in Zumba to commemorate the life of my organ donor since I’m dancing with my new lungs. Zumba is always my way to shake stress away.

Has the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation been very supportive of you?

: Nancy Rao and Karen Blank at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation have been very supportive. They helped organize my Zumbathon where we raised $2500, also the Great Strides Walk for CF that raised $5,500. I am happy to have their support and to call them my friends. For more information on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation please visit cff.org/Chapters/longisland/

• Sara Fingerman - sara@gemmagazineli.com Arts & Entertainment Editor, GEM Magazine LI

WHEREvER you GO! GEMMagazineLI.com Get GEM in your in-box for FREE! Sign up at GEMMAGAZINELI.COM View our digital edition ISSuu.COM/GEMMAGAZINELI

college funding by Michele Martin As the parent of four adult children, I know the angst and hardship of financing your child’s education. We all want the best for our children and hope they attend college if it is their choice. If college is in your child’s future, how will you pay for it ? A 529 Plan could be the Call me today to discuss options. vehicle used to put money answer. A 529 Plan isyour a savings Some people think Allstate only protects your car. Truth is, away for and your the expenses you will your incur. There are Allstate cancollege also protect home or apartment, boat, many 529- even plansyour available andand you should dothe your research motorcycle retirement your life. And more ofbefore your world you puton in which Good Hands®, more canand save. deciding plan isthe right foryou you your needs. MICHELE MARTIN Many (631) consider Plans a good investment because 261529 4200 of possible state, federal, gift 1028 FT. SALONGA RD and estate tax advantages available.NORTHPORT Contributions to the plan are federal tax free as a093157@allstate.com long as the money is used towards books, fees, tuition, room, board and any other expenses required or assessed for attendance a higherandeducational Even Insurance subject to terms,inqualifications availability. Allstate institute. Property and Casualty Insurance Allstate Indemnity Company, Fire and it Casualty Insurance thoughCompany, 529 plans can offer taxAllstate savings, should have a Company. Life insurance and annuities issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, limited on aCompany, students financial contribution. NE, Allstate effect Life Insurance Northbrook, IL, and aid American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Jacksonville, FL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of A 529 plan can help manage the burden of college New York, Hauppauge, NY. Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company. expenses. It is important to consult your financial advisor or accountant to learn how a 529 Plan can help your child reach their college dreams and goals. • Michele Martin 631-261-4200 Michele M. Martin Insurance Agency, Inc.

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business & finance trends By Lisa Pomerantz Many students work for businesses as unpaid “interns” hoping that such arrangements will lead to permanent jobs. Recent studies have shown that while paid internships often lead to permanent jobs, unpaid ones do not. In addition, many businesses and students do not realize that unpaid internships are illegal unless they meet United States Department of Labor guidelines. Those guidelines require businesses to pay their “employees” the minimum wage required by applicable state or federal law. For interns not to be covered by those minimum wage requirements, they must not be considered “employees” within the meaning of these laws. The United States Department of Labor has specified guidelines for making this determination: ∙ The internship, even though it includes actual

operation of the facilities of the employer, is similar to training which would be given in an educational environment ∙ The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern ∙ The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under close supervision of existing staff ∙ The employer that provides the training derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern; and on occasion its operations may actually be impeded ∙ The intern is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship ∙ The employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the time spent in the internship • Lisa Renee Pomerantz - Attorney At Law 631-244-1482, Lisapom.com august 2012

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for a good c Fashion Show Raises Funds For Huntington Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dolan Family Health Center On June 13th, the Society of Italian Americans & Friends, Inc., a not-for-profit organization, held its annual Fashion Show Dinner/ Dance Gala at the Larkfield Manor in East Northport. This year, with the support of Gem Magazine LI & Walt Whitman Shops, a casting call for Long Island women ages 21 to 101 held center court at the Walt Whitman Shops in Huntington on May 10th in search of models for the show. Women, from all walks of life, most with no previous modeling experience, walked the runway to support their Long Island community. Twenty models were selected by a panel of judges:

Gem Magazine LI publisher Tanya Lee, FashionSociete founder Cathy Berger, former Ms. Senior America Gail King and Lord & Taylor visual manager Laura Murtha. The event helped to raise much needed funds for Huntington Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dolan Family Health Center. The Center helps individuals and families with insufficient health insurance, by providing medical services with an established payment plan based on a sliding scale. The Center, located on Pulaski road in Greenlawn, seeks to reduce the need for hospital emergency room visits, focusing on treating medical issues before they escalate, minimizing the costs to both patient, hospital and tax payers.

photos by KLD Photography , KDiNicola.com

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Forestdale Inc. Annual Benefit The generosity of the people of New York State was very humbling on May 15th, 2012. Forestdale’s mission is to grant inner-city children the fundamental assets of survival, such as a secure home life, educational excellence and opportunities as well as health and sex education. The benefit opened up as a glossy red carpet event, complete with photographers from GuestofaGuest.com. Reverend Dr. Alfonso Wyatt gave the Invocation and benefit chair Sinead Whelan and Executive Director Antiss Agnew welcomed and educated guests and benefactors about their wonderful organization. Honor Robin Hayes, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of JetBlue Airways, donated $25,000 to the cause. The evening was completed with musical performances by Broadway vocalists and a silent auction. For more information on Forestdale, please go to forestdaleinc.org. -by Sara Fingerman

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Self Empowering Workshops at Molloy High school students and parents gathered together at Molloy College on Saturday, June 9th to attend the second annual “Self-Empowering Workshop for College Bound High School Students,” hosted by the organization, My Time Has Come™. The all-day event was a huge success, as students, sponsors, and resource people had the opportunity to discuss and share their personal experiences, as well as the challenges and opportunities college-bound students are facing in today’s world. For additional information, please visitmytimehascome.org.

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for a good From Beauties to Bagpipes: The Wounded Warrior Project Fashion Show On Sunday July 8th 2012, Carlyle on the Green hosted A Night of Military Inspired Hair and Fashion collections to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) serves military service members along with their families who incurred service-connected wounds, injuries, or illnesses on or after September 11, 2001.When the fashion show began, I felt like I was transported to NY Fashion week. The hair and makeup design was incredible! Each set of models that came out

featured a different theme from break-dancers to swing dancing models sporting World War II inspired uniforms. It was great to see the gratitude of the soldiers that enjoyed the evening with the guests. Dan Marquardt and Paul Prince provided beautiful photos to capture every moment along with many other talented photographers. This Collette Lee Production featured local hair stylists, fashion designers, models, dancers, DJ’s, and make-up artists who paid tribute to their craft and to the people who fight for our nation every day, our soldiers.

5th Annual Huntington Has Taste Prime Kitchen and Bar of Huntington hosted the 5th Annual “Huntington Has Taste” event on Tuesday June 26, 2012. Sponsors and auction donations raised $6,000 to benefit Long Island Cares and the Harry Chapin food bank. It is refreshing to see events like this in the summer especially when most people donate food to the hungry around the Holiday Season. The night was filled with fashion, food and

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fast cars, featuring the latest models by Ferrari-Maserati of Long Island, hor douerves, gift bags and raffles. Skyfish Swimwear models arrived to the boardwalk on an Azimut Yacht courtesy of MarineMax.The fashion show boutiques included Rexer-Parkes, Ooh La La, Veronica Rayne and Francine’s, all located in Huntington, NY. Beauty contributors included Haven Hair Spa, Monet Salon and the Beehive.

cause

A cure for cancer and a love for all humankind create warm summer nights for charitable Long Islanders. by Sara Fingerman

Long Island Hospitality Ball On June 18th 2012, 60 of Long Island’s top restaurants displayed their specialty items with delight to over two thousand individuals poolside at the beautiful Crest Hollow Country Club located in Woodbury, NY. The guests looked gorgeous in their suits and gowns as they lined up to take pictures on the red carpet to get photographed or be interviewed by Live it Up with Donna Drake. The event raised more than $220,000 for the American Cancer Society. The ball

was founded in 2011 by Keith Hart, of Hart Agency. Hart is a hospitality industry mainstay and cancer survivor, whose private battle with thyroid cancer, now in remission, inspired him to go public with his mission and rally the industry to join the fight against cancer through an extraordinary evening of dining, dancing and donating. That 70’s Band help attendees rock the night away and the food and drink went on all evening.

Castle Zumba Zumbathon® On a stormy summer night, over 200 people came to dance, love, dance and dance again at the Oheka Castle, Huntington NY. This Zumbathon® charity event helped raise money for the Jordan Yurkew Memorial Fund benefiting pediatric cancer research at the Steven and Alexandria Cohen Children’s Medical Center and other pediatric cancer research. An $8,000 donation will be issued to a doctor who is working on cell targeted chemotherapy research along with other

advancements in treatment. Andrea Yurkew, Zumba Instructor and the mother of Jordan, organized the event and was humbled by everyone’s generosity. That evening, Yurkew thanked everyone in attendance on her Facebook page, she wrote; “There are certain special nights in a persons life that you remember forever. You can usually count them on one hand and if you’re lucky two. This night ranked up with those very special times. It truly was the perfect storm.”

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the guide to dining long island’s

lighter side

IYPanini - IYSalads

la bottega huntington dine in - ta ttaKeout Keout - delivery - piCKup loCation 9 WALL sT., HuNTINGTON • 631-271-3540

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la bottega huntington

the guide to dining long island’s

lighter side

pure goodness

SKinny piZZa piZZa - paSta - SaladS - wrapS 2 LOCATIONs! rooSevelt field mall & 211 MINEOLA INEOLA AvE., AvE., ROsLYN • 516-686-6180

fresh american-style

healy’S inn deliCiouS SaladS - freSh Seafood SpeCialS loCation 54 BROADWAY, GREENLAWN • 631-754-2700

SKINNYARUGULA

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gluten-free eclectic

BLACK & BLUE SEAFOOD CHOPHOUSE RAW BAR - SEAFOOD - STEAKS - CHICKEN LOCATION 65 W Wall sT., sTT., hUnTInGTOn, hUnTInGTOn, ny • 631-385-9255

Black & Blue on Wall Street in Huntington Village is the winner of the 2010 Long Island Food Critic Award for it’s creative Eclectic fare. At Black and Blue, you can feel good about what you eat. It is a true “gem” of a restaurant dining experience! With an extensive gluten-free menu, Black & Blue has a passion for pleasing their guests by offering a wide variety of culinary delights with a health-conscious point of view. For starters, try the CRISPy THAI STyLE CALAMARI with scallions, cilantro, peanuts and sweet red chile or the MANGO & MOzzARELLA with a balsamic drizzle. Sea delights include pan roasted CHILEAN SEA BASS with roasted asparagus, wilted spinach and a tomato. With an everyday $26.95 3 course prix-fixe menu, Black & Blue is an irresistible dining delight. BLACKANDBLUEHUNTINGTON.COM

fresh italian specialties

PORTO FINO RESTAURANT SEAFOOD - SALADS - PASTA - PIZZA LOCATION 395 nEW yORK aVE., hUnTInGTOn • 631-673-1200

Nestled in the heart of Huntington Village lives a corner restaurant that is sure to be your next Sunday tradition. Not only do they offer a delicious menu full of traditional Italian specialities they also have an extensive martini and wine list to pair with your meal. At Porto Fino, guests can choose appetizers, pastas and entrees that are freshly prepared to meet their health needs. The designations are noted right on the menu, allowing guests the freedom to make personal dietary decisions at their own discretion. Enticing entrée specials include GRILLED VEGETABLES & CHICKEN; grilled eggplant, roasted peppers, mushrooms, zucchini with a balsamic drizzle over grilled chicken. If you’re in the mood for a delicious slice of pizza or Rigatoni Pesto Rosso, Porto Fino’s Restaurant will deliver quality dining. PORTOFINOHUNTINGTON.COM

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the guide to dining long island’s

lighter side

superb cuisine

a real home run

ALMARCO ITALIAN GRILL SALADS - PASTA - FOCACCIAS - PIZZETTES LOCATION 13 wall st., huntington • 631-935-1690

ROOKIES SPORTS CLUB

When you’re in the mood for great cuisine and healthy menu choices, be sure to check out Almarco Italian Grill. Located in the Heart of Huntington, Almarco is known for its knowledgeable staff and superb cuisine. The menu at Almarco Italian Grill features a wide array of great selections, made from only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Eat in or take out our favorite, GRILLED SALMON SALAD; mixed greens tossed with chopped tomato, red onions, broccoli rabe in a lemon and olive oil drizzle. Another crowd pleaser is the GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD; mixed greens tossed with fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, toasted almonds in a citrus vinaigrette. Almarco Italian Grill has established itself as one of the area’s favorite culinary destinations and is sure to offer you a pleasant and unique dining experience every time you visit.

FLATBREAD - SALADS - WRAPS - AND MORE LOCATION 70 gerard st., huntington • 631-923-0424

For a unique experience at a sports bar, enjoy a “light” meal while you watch your favorite sports team. Rookies’ menu hosts a variety of FLATBREAD PIZZA, STADIUM SALADS, WRAPS and NEW GRILLED CHICKEN SKEWERS. Their innovative audio and visual experience allows you to watch up to 10 different games at once while and you choose the audio at your table! Kid-friendly Rookies hits a home run with a $9.99 lunch special Monday-Friday, 11:30AM-4PM and Happy Hour happens every day from 3-7 PM. Check their weekly lineup for event specials. ROOKIESNY.COM

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Rooftop 32 - Rockville Centre by Thea Ferzola Writing from the perspective of both a teacher and mother, I am overcome with mixed emotions. September is soon upon us and that means sending one off to college, another to high school and finally the third to middle school. The hustle and bustle of trying on new clothes, buying school supplies etc. should be a time for rejoicing. However, as a teacher, it is hard to say good-bye to summer. My days of planning engaging lessons, challenging thirteen year olds to wastebasket basketball and hearing about all the angst of these pre-pubescent teens are fast approaching. A quick remedy? A girl’s night out at the local establishment that exudes summer–Rooftop 32. The white lights and landscape hide the fact that one is actually dining and imbibing on S. Park Ave, in Rockville Centre, NY! Meet the ladies for drinks and be sure to ask for Jessica. She will happily set you up at the bar with a cool Mojito or Long Island Iced Tea. The Seafood Trilogy consists of fresh lobsters, a dozen cherrystone clams and the most succulent jumbo shrimp on the Island. Weekday happy hour offers five dollar cocktails and impeccable service. Take the time to reflect on the summer that passed; the lazy days spent on the beach, the fabulous Fourth of July fireworks and the cool mint floating in your second Mojito. Don’t think of the upcoming Fall as a time of doom and gloom–instead, look to it as a time for change and opportunity!

The Huntington Arts Council: Heating up the Summer with Live Entertainment! by Frances McGarry The image of a seven-year old dancing and mimicking the movements of Sol Y Sombra Spanish Dance Company on the grass at the Chapin Rainbow Stage is something Executive Director, Diana Cherryholmes of the Huntington Arts Council (HAC) will always remember: “That’s what we’re about, giving people these opportunities to sit and connect [in a way] that indoor venues do not permit.” For the past 15 years, Diana has committed her talent and expertise to the Huntington Arts Council beginning as its Program Director. “My heart is always with the Summer Arts Festival and making sure that we bring high quality variety of performances every summer.” And this summer’s festival series was hotter than ever! As one of its goals, the Festival brings performances that people have never heard of and might not consider attending. Making bold choices are guided by consistent audience attendance (last summer’s numbers were over 54

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59,000 individuals), Diana is assured that they’ll come because “they believe in what we do and they know that we always bring quality [performances].” The scope of the summer series is vast and rich in range. Partnering with other Huntington arts organizations provides the community with choices that don’t conflict with each other; rather, they coalesce into an abundance of rich arts experiences: “Collaboration is very critical in this day and age. As long as there is a demand, then that brings greater benefit and the pie can grow larger. We’re not fighting for our quarter slice; we just won’t do that. The pie just gets bigger.” The Huntington Arts Council prides itself as being a “community of collaborators.” They have certainly proved the mettle of their worth. Visit their website at huntingtonarts.org, lend your support of The Arts, and make a difference in your life and the lives of your family, and have a hot time in the town tonight. You’ll be glad you did. • Frances McGarry, PhD, francesmcgarry.com

dress up and get ready to laugh

I L ove Y ou , Y ou ’ re P erfect , N ow c haNge by Sara Fingerman Have you ever read a book or watched a movie and thought to yourself, are they talking about me? That’s what I thought after viewing the John W. Engeman Theater at Northport’s production of “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change”, by Joe Dipietro and Jimmy Roberts. The storyline is simple: two men and two women sing and dance about the trials and tribulations of relationships. It begins with the singles dating scene and finding common ground on the first date. To the wedding and children, to dealing with your teenage children and your spouse on a road trip to becoming middle aged and trying to see why you fell in love in the first place. Eventually reaching the end of life and realizing its okay to move on and maybe find love again. Not only was this show honest and to the point, it kept me laughing from start to finish. Forget reading self-help dating books like “He’s Just Not that Into You”, or “Act Like a Lady Think like a Man”, go online and reserve your tickets to “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. • Sara Fingerman - sara@gemmagazineli.com Arts & Entertainment Editor, GEM Magazine LI

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