Cookiesare a treat any time of the day, and many find biscotti particularly appealing. These crunchy cookies are equally at home with a morning cup of coffee as they are with an evening mug of hot cocoa. Biscotti are hard, crunchy, Italian cookies that are baked twice. In fact, their name comes from the Latin “bis,” meaning “twice,” and “coctus,” meaning “cooked.” Although they can be enjoyed on their own, their dry, crunchy nature makes them hold up well when dunked into a beverage. Biscotti were even once commonly dipped into red wine. Though they might seem complicated, biscotti generally are easy to make. Try this recipe for “Semolina and Almond Biscotti” from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.
Yields 12 to 16 cookies
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup semolina flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional: 10 ounces dark chocolate to melt for dipping
Directions: Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and salt. Mix to incorporate. Add the all-purpose flour, almonds, semolina flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix.
Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Pat gently to form one long loaf of dough roughly 14 to 16 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide. Bake 30 minutes.
Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool 5 to 6 minutes before using a long knife to cut the loaf gently into 12 to 16 cookies.
Lay each cookie on its side and bake another 20 minutes, flipping the cookies midway through. Cool completely to achieve that signature crunch. The centers will be a bit soft if eaten warm. These are perfect for dunking in coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
Optional: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts and gently dip half of each biscotti into it lengthwise. Flip the biscotti chocolate-side-up onto a sheet tray and allow the chocolate to set.
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Why It’s Harder Than Ever To Make An Appointment With Your Doctor
(State Point) Americans face unprecedented wait times to see their doctors. This squeeze is particularly acute in primary care, but is also being felt in specialties like neurology, psychiatry and OB/GYN.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), here are the top reasons why it’s harder than ever to be seen by a health care provider:
1. Not enough doctors. With the U.S. population growing and aging, the need for physicians continues to grow.
Yet, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges, the physician shortage is projected to reach 86,000 by 2036.
2. A broken Medicare system. With an aging population and more Medicare patients on the horizon, the Medicare system needs significant reform. Today, Medicare pays physicians nearly 30% less than it did in 2001, when adjusted for inflation. So while the
overhead costs of running a practice—equipment, office space, staff salaries—have all soared, payment for caring for Medicare patients has decreased dramatically, making running a practice extremely challenging.
“Physicians have shouldered the burden of a broken Medicare payment system for far too long. Especially in small, independent practices, and practices in rural and underserved areas, physicians have been forced to cut costs, eliminate staff, or limit the number of Medicare patients we see,” says Bruce A. Scott, M.D., president of the AMA. “These are steps we take simply to keep the doors open and the lights on. But unfortunately, because of this dysfunction, all patients—not just Medicare patients—are put at risk when our flawed and outdated payment system forces physicians to close their practices.”
3. Administrative burdens. Increasing bureaucracy and administrative
barriers, such as prior authorization, consume significant time for physicians. Doctors today, on average, spend two hours on paperwork for every one hour they spend with patients.
4. Backlog and burnout. One
of the ultimate legacies of COVID-19 is a backlog of services and screenings put off during the pandemic, now offered by fewer providers. Two in three doctors admitted to experiencing burnout during the pandemic,
according to a survey from the AMA, the Mayo Clinic and Stanford Medicine. That’s the highest level of burnout ever recorded by the AMA. One in five physicians surveyed during the pandemic said they planned to leave
medicine within the next two years, while one in three said they’d cut back on their hours.
While there is indeed a crisis in care, the AMA says that there are solutions to address the problem. They include:
• Fixing the broken Medicare payment system. The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee has called for connecting physician payment to the Medicare Economic Index, which would ensure rising practice costs do not continue to overwhelm what Medicare pays.
• Adding voices to the chorus of patients and physicians calling for reform. Those concerned about this problem and worried about continued access to their physician, can visit FixMedicareNow. org.
“It is imperative that we take steps as a country to help all patients get the high-quality care they need and to ensure physicians can continue to deliver it,” says Dr. Scott.
West Islip Ranks Among Top New York State School Districts
According to a recently published report by Syracuse.com, West Islip Union Free School District is tied for the highest-ranking school district in New York State based on the 2023-2024 Language Arts Regents results. West Islip is tied
with 22 other school districts out of 634 across New York State. It is also among the top five on Long Island and the top two in Suffolk County. West Islip tested a total of 316 students.
“Our district administrators, building administrators,
and teachers made this tremendous accomplishment possible,” said West Islip Union Free School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Romanelli. “Beginning in the early years with building a solid foundation in literacy,
to the middle and high school years where our educators work to strengthen the reading, writing, and communication skills our students need to be successful, this is truly a team effort and a collective accomplishment.”
BABYLON OFFICE AWARDS
Garage Door Sale!
FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS
FRI. FEB. 21st
5:30PM
A DRAGON-SIZED FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
This special family evening is packed with fun dragon-inspired activities and a screening of the heartwarming movie How to Train Your Dragon. Cradle of Aviation Museum ~ Charles Lindbergh Blvd. ~ Garden City. For more information: General 516-5724111 ~ Reservations 516-5724066
6:30PM TRIVIA NIGHT
N. Babylon Lions Club Trivia Night at North Babylon A. Tatti Youth Center, 213 Phelphs Lane in N. Babylon. $35pp includes Prizes, pizza, salad. Raffles and 50/50. RSVP by 2/10 to Diane @ 6315530217 or Judy @ 631-7453007
SAT. FEB. 22nd
10:00AM-11:00AM
WILDLIFE WONDERS: FUN WITH FEATHERS
Sweetbriar’s experienced educators help open up the wonders of the natural world for children, through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. Sweetbriar Nature Center - ECSS, 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344
SUN. FEB. 23rd
1:00-4:00pm AN AFTERNOON WITH ELVIS
HOLIDAYS
2nd - Groundhog Day
14th - Valentine's Day 17th - Presidents' Day
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
Long Island Society of Italian Americans, (LISIA) is having an Afternoon With Elvis at The Malverne American Legion, 240 Franklin Ave, Post 44. $30.00 pp, includes admission, show, coffee and cake and a cash bar. Bring your own snacks, max 10 to a table. Call Diane Langella @ 516777-0607 for reservations.
1:00-6:00pm TAKEOUT PASTA MEATBALL & SAUSAGE DINNER
Babylon Lions Club, Pick-up at Cafe 11 Villaggio, 35 Deer Park Avenue, Babylon Village. All proceeds go to charity. $35 Per Order - Take Out Only. Pre-orders can be placed beginning at 11:00 am for more information, please call 631-422-7037
TUES. FEB. 25th
1:00PM
CARNEVALE CELEBRATION
The Italian Cultural Society of Farmingdale cordially invites you to join them at their February Carnevale celebration. Entertainment and light refreshments. Costumes and/ or masks are encouraged for all attendees. Come join the fun! Allen Park Meeting Room, Motor Avenue in Farmingdale. For more information, please contact ICSF Co-President Aggie Vitale agvit@ aol.com
4:00PM-5:00PM TEEN LIVING WITH WILDLIFE
The Wildlife Center of Long Island is coming to the Babylon Library!
Meet some of their Ambassador reptiles, mammals, and birds that call Long Island home and explore their role in our local ecosystem. Discover why these animals are at the Wildlife Hospital and how you can help others like them. Earn one hour of community service for attending! Grades 6-12. Registration required.24 S. Carll Ave. in Babylon,. For more information, please call Erin White 63-669-1624
6:30PM BABY SHOWER
The Kiwanis Club of Copiague is having a Baby Shower and will be collecting new clothing, diapers, blankets and many other items a baby needs. Items will be donated to Madonna Heights. Please drop off donations at Red Lobster 801 Sunrise Hwy in Copiague on Tuesday, Feb. 25th. For more information, please contact Lori Prisco 631-495-8755, or Christine Madrazo 631-559-1079
NOW THROUGH FEB. 26th
10:00AM-5:00PM
NY FINE ARTS SOCIETY EXHIBITION
1 Flowerfield, Suite 15, St. James. Paintings and prints 18th century to today, Goya, Kollwitz, Dali, PIcasso, Modigliani, and much more, Childen's art WORKSHOP. Admission goes to support the NEW YORK FINE ARTS SOCIETY. For more information, please call Yuka at 631-880-1719
The Long Island Pet Expo Returns March 1-2, 2025
Popular Pet Showcase Features Entertainment, Education & Shopping
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 1-2, 2025, with fur flying entertainment, dog sporting competitions and educational programs designed for the whole family. The event returns to Suffolk County Community College Grant Campus in the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena and features many special attractions, pet adoptions and outstanding shopping for pet lovers and their pets.
“The Long Island area is passionate about animals and pets of all kinds,” said show co-producer Karen Garetano of Family Pet Shows, which runs several similar events in the northeast.
The 100+ special exhibits always feature some of the hottest new products coming out often before they hit the retail shelves. Pets on leashes are always welcome, and several area rescue groups with adoptable pets will be on hand. Popular performers and presenters include Gail Mirabella and the Dynamo Dogs, Diana Frohman and her Beautiful Dancing Dogs, Schutzhund Demonstration by Maximum K9 Service, Zenos Dog Run Lure Course, Rainforest Reptiles Shows, TICA Championship Cat Shows, Rabbit Hopping, Parties by Parrots and more
“We always have fun at these events, but we also are strong supporters of responsible pet ownership and humane values when it comes to all issues involving animals and
pets,” said Garetano. “We partner with several community organizations, shelters, veterinarians and other animal lovers educate and inform when it comes to best practices for training, feeding and all aspects of pet care.”
Community and rescue organizations will be participating in the show where attendees can learn about pet adoptions as well as responsible ownership and care.
The event is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees over the weekend. Adult admission is $20, Kids 4-11 are $6, and those three years old and under are always free. Saturday March 2nd the hours are 10 am to 7 pm, and on Sunday, March 3rd, from 10 am to 5pm. For discount tickets and additional information, visit www. familypetshows.com.
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Reducing Your Risk Of RSV: What You Need To Know
As cold and flu season sets in, a seemingly simple cold could signal a more serious concern for some people—but there’s good news, too. The Risk of RSV Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that mimics cold-like symptoms. While many people recover quickly, RSV can cause severe illness, hospitalization, and even death in certain groups, particularly older adults. The virus spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact.
However, there’s a way to protect yourself: vaccination. Last year, RSV vaccines reduced the risk of hospitalization or emergency visits by 75%, making them a powerful tool in preventing severe outcomes.
The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends RSV vaccination for:
• Everyone 75 years and older
• Adults aged 60–74 at higher risk due to chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, severe obesity, or diabetes, as well as those living in nursing homes. Unfortunately, chronic conditions are widespread in older populations. Public health experts encourage you to discuss your RSV risk with your healthcare provider.
Nearly 95% of adults aged 60 and older have at least one chronic health issue, and almost 80% have two or more, so talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about whether you have eligible risk conditions.
Taking Action Champions for Vaccine
Education, Equity, and Progress (CVEEP), a trusted source of information that advocates for access to recommended vaccines, emphasizes the importance of vaccination for those most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, especially in underserved communities. RSV vaccines can be given alongside other vaccinations, and they’re free for most people. Both private and public insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover RSV vaccines. Adults who are eligible can get vaccinated against RSV at any time of year.
Find a Vaccine
To locate an RSV vaccine near you and learn more about RSV protection options, visit www.vaccines.gov or www.CVEEP.org/RSVReady.
Why Regular Car Washes Are Important
Taking care of a vehicle involves more than just maintaining the equipment under the hood. There are a number of steps involved in keeping a car or truck in top form, and that includes regular car washes.
Car washes keep a vehicle shiny and clean, which can help it look good while sitting in the driveway or cruising the highway. However, regular car washes are more than cosmetic.
• Protection from the sun: A car that is routinely and properly washed and waxed is less vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
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• Extend the life of paint: Dirt and debris can build up on the paint surface and eventually lead to scratches and other damage. Bird droppings and sap can be corrosive. Washing will help remove grime and protect the paint in the process.
• Preserve the vehicle’s value: Drivers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicles in the future should realize that a well-maintained car can bring in as much as 20 percent more for
above-average condition, according to Kelley Blue Book. Maintaining a clean and shiny vehicle can protect its long-term value.
• Remove salt: Drivers who live near the ocean or in areas where roads are salted in the winter to melt snow may have cars with high salt corrosion rates. Unless it’s washed off frequently, salt can take its toll, leading to damage.
• Improve fuel efficiency: Drivers have felt pain in their wallets at the fuel pump in recent years. Dirty cars may be less aerodynamic and less fuel-efficient as a result. Keeping a car clean may improve its fuel efficiency.
• Maintain the interior: Car washes are not only about the exterior. Keeping a
clean and tidy interior can help improve the air quality inside of the vehicle and prolong the life of upholstery, mats and interior components. Car washes should be a routine part of vehicle maintenance. Professional car washes tend to be more ecofriendly than washing a car at home.
Winter Senior Advocate Schedules
Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to inform Islip residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Winter 2025 Senior Advocate Schedule. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate community agencies.
“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our County’s senior advocates right in their own communities,” said Legislator Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for
the Aging provides will take advantage of this opportunity.”
This winter, Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Islip:
• Bay Shore Library, 1 S. Country Road, Brightwaters: Friday, March 21, 10 am – 12 pm
• Bishop McGann Housing, 200 Bishop McGann Drive, Central Islip: Mondays, February 24 & March 24, 10 am –12 pm
• Brentwood Senior Nutrition, 16 Second Avenue, Brentwood: Monday, March 3, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
• Connetquot Library, 760 Ocean Avenue, Bohemia: Thursday, March 13, 10 am – 12 pm
• East Islip Library, 381 E. Main Street, East Islip: Monday, March 10, 10 am – 12 pm Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer questions and make recommendations and referrals. For more information about available services or directions to any of these locations, please call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at (631) 8538200.
“For more than three decades, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and trouble-free access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”
