Village Connection Magazine February 2012

free!

VALENTINE’S DAY

GIFT GUIDE

Lifestyle & Arts Magazine - February 2012 village connection • february 2012 • 1

Mercedes-Benz of Huntington...

Don’t Settle for Anything Less!

Here’s why distinguished Mercedes-Benz owners return to us year after year: • Affordable pricing!

• Saturday service hours starting at 8:00 am • Online service appointment scheduling • The confidence of knowing your vehicle is properly maintained for maximum safety using genuine Mercedes-Benz Parts for exact fit and longer life • Installed by factory trained technicians • Pick-up and delivery in Huntington, either at the home or office

• Shuttle service in Huntington, to local shopping centers, home or office • And we now have a fleet of 90 loaner vehicles, provided by appointment for scheduled service • Same day service (in most cases) • Strong relationship with Mercedes-Benz of Huntington’s professional staff of factory trained service advisors who are in tune with your vehicle’s needs

Mercedes-Benz of Huntington is one of Long Island’s most prestigious Mercedes-Benz dealerships with a stellar reputation for thinking beyond the transaction.

Mercedes-Benz of Huntington is a Proud Supporter of many local Charitable Organizations

Shop Local, Buy Local!

Remember, it’s all about relationships

1103 East Jericho Tpke., Huntington NY. We Have Saturday Service Hours from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. M-F 9-8, Sat 9-6. Open Sunday 11-4

1.855.677.5463 / MBHuntington.com

2 • village connection • february 2012

An unforgettable

VALENTINE’S DAY

104 Main Street Northport, NY 11768 631.261.0436

village connection • february 2012 • 3

contents pg

february 2012

11

Village Connection 6 8 11 18 20 24 27 28 34 36 42 46 48 49 50 52

pg On the Cover: (photo by John Joseph Dowling, Jr)

L16

Diane Keaton Red Hat Kameleon Filigree Heart Pendant with Full Bloom JewelPop Kameleon Bracelet with JewelPop Flamingo Burst, Full Bloom & Pink Cats Eye Kameleon “base” jewelry designs include rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces and pins. They feature natural, flowing lines that are all carefully crafted in sterling silver to accept small interchangeable inserts called “JewelPops”.

The Unique Kameleon Jewelry Line can be found at: Four Star Variety & Home Store 135 Main Street, Northport

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Publisher’s Letter Beauty Valentine’s Day Gift Guide Style Fitness Finance Artistic Expression Wellness Lucky to Live Here Northport History Designer Look Playing it Safe Art Galleries & Museums Featured Artist Seniors Outdoor Living

Huntington LIVE L4 Nightlife & Entertainment L6 Huntington’s Music Man - Rich Rivkin L8 Out & About L10 At the Cinema L11 Long Island Comedy Tweets L12 Astrology L14 Wine L16 Beer

It has room for seven and their gear.

Land Rover HUNTINGTON 1249 East Jericho Turnpike 631-427-2222

www.LandRoverLI.com Other Centres in Glen Cove and Southampton

village connection • february 2012 • 5

publisher’s letter

JUST TRY TO KEEP UP So the holidays are now behind us and we are looking for something new to celebrate. Personally, I am celebrating the re-birth of VillageConnectionMagazine.com. As experienced experts in magazine publishing and early adopters of social networking we are now offering one integrated marketing solution, with online and print campaigns running concurrently.

We have just surpassed 17,500 friends and contacts, and we are now branching off into a video version of our magazine, including our new multimedia television channel and VillageConnectionMagazine.com video streaming.

As we continue to be pioneers of social networking, and perfect our traditional print media offerings, we are now also providing social media, public relations, video production, and photographic services, via our new partners.

This month’s issue features cover model Kara Nicole Ramos (local Paramount Theater employee turned “supermodel”) who also was kind enough to “decorate” our Valentines day gift guide. Please, as always remember to shop locally, and as our Valentines day gift guide features all local businesses, feel free to use your Village Connection Discount Card.

Stay tuned for our future issues, which always keep you in the local loop of what’s exciting and unique to our community. While we are continuing to feature local artists and establishments we are also now expanding our coverage and bios on local personalities and iconic Huntington perspectives.

As always, we welcome your feedback and we invite you to become part of our growing network on facebook at VillageConnectionMagazine.

In the meantime, I’ll see you in the Village...

Jim

6 • village connection • february 2012

free!

Lifestyle & Arts Magazine - February 2012 village connection • february 2012 • 1

Take your Village with you wherever you go ENJOY VILLAGE CONNECTION MAGAZINE ANY TIME, ANY WHERE

Digital edition includes links to the websites of your favorite Huntington merchants ISSUU.COM/VILLAGECONNECTION

village connection • february 2012 • 7

beauty - adriana vater

Romance is in the Hair

Lovely locks are irresistible – especially on Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re celebrating with a luscious dinner, a wonderful evening out (at, say, Huntington’s own Paramount Theater) or just want to add some fun drama to your day, show off your fabulous self with a special new look.

This season hair trends are wild, with a rock-n-roll attitude.

Consider a shaggy, longer bob of full, healthy locks, or a rockstar crop that’s buzzed in back with texture and height on top.

Natural waves take center stage in longer looks. Give creative license to curls with light products such as Aveda’s Be Curly Style Prep in combination with a flax aloe gel on damp hair to enhance its natural wave. Limit frizz with a curl enhancer, blow dry on low with a mild heat. Shape curls with your fingers to tease out that natural texture. Bangs are sexy with edgy, jagged fringe.

Make your eyes even more entrancing with a rich mascara. Sweep the brush toward the outer corners of your eyes for that ultra-long,

8 • village connection • february 2012

movie star appeal. Apply in layers – let one layer dry completely before adding another – and be sure to comb out any clumps. It’s a glamorous look so don’t hesitate to take a stand with this bolder lash, especially for Valentine’s Day! Get flirty by combining that mesmerizing lash with an innocent pinkish blush to your cheeks. Think rosebuds, then go a shade lighter! Tie that in with eyeshadow that’s also boasting a blushing hue. Pink lips with a high gloss shine says, “Come hither!”

Turn up the heat with your own Valentine’s Day look this year with a style that’s va-va-voom, to make your sweetheart swoon!

Adriana Vater is the Creative Director and co-founder of Spa Adriana at 266 Main Street in Huntington Village. Visit her website, spaadriana.com or call 631-351-1555.

THe ArT AnD ScIence OF Pure FlOwer AnD PlAnT eSSenceS

thicker,

fuller hair © Aveda Corp.

is yours

new botanical therapy treatment for thinning hair Get a head start of fuller hair with our professional in-salon treatment. It helps create a healthy scalp environment for an enhanced experience with invati™ solutions for thinning hairhelping to reduce hair loss* to keep the hair you have longer.

Book your appointment today. *Due to breakage

HAIr cOlOr, cuTTInG, SKIn cAre, SPA BODy SerVIceS, AVeDA PrODucTS.

For appointment 631-351-1555

266 Main Street Huntington Village

www.spaadriana.com

village connection • february 2012 • 9

For memories that last a lifetime...

SPECIALIZING IN ENGAGEMENT RINGS & WEDDING BANDS - 14K, 18K, PLATINUM

CUSTOM MADE JEWELRY

JEWELRY REPAIR

TOP DOLLAR PAID FOR YOUR GOLD & DIAMOND JEWELRY UPGRADE YOUR OUTDATED JEWELRY

WATCH BATTERIES FREE APPRAISALS GIA, EGL, UGS, ETC

Valentine’s Day Specials SHOW YOUR LOVE WITH A GIFT FROM THE DIAMOND CENTER $50 OFF* PURCHASE OF $500 OR MORE OR $100 OFF* PURCHASE OF $800 OR MORE *Bring this ad. Cannot be combined. Offer expires 2/14/12

THE DIAMOND CENTER 631-629-4669 • 252 West Jericho Tpke., Huntington Station West of Rte. 110, across the street from King Kullen

10 • village connection • february 2012

How Do I love Thee?

On Kara - 3 1/2 ct. Diamond Necklace set in 18kt. White Gold, 2.75 ct. Diamond & 4 ct.

Red Ruby Ring.

The Diamond Center 252 West Jericho Tpke.

Huntington Station 631-629-4669

Let us help you count the ways with our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide. We’ve got suggestions for every special sweetheart on your list and it’s all available right here in Huntington.

village connection • february 2012 • 11

Diamonds & blue sapphire 18kt Hamsa pendant including chain, .43ct Diamond, .08ct blue sapphire Zachary’s Fine Jewelry, 264 Main Street, Huntington, 631-673-2200

Cheek to Cheek Give the Gift of Dance to the one you love, Make it a date night at The Ballroom of Huntington!

Chocolates made with love

The Ballroom of Huntington 586 New York Avenue Huntington Village 631-385-7271

Beauty on Demand Spread the Love with Spa Adriana’s Beauty-on-Demand Services, a suite of express spa services that clients can enjoy while relaxing during the “down time” of hair color processing or as an add-on to any service. With these treatments guests receive a skincare starter kit so they can continue their spa experience at home. Ideal for Valentine’s gifts or as a pick-me-up treat, the new Complete Beauty-onDemand services are available now.

They can also be purchased as Spa Adriana Gift Card packages.

Spa Adriana, 266 Main Street Huntington, 631-351-1555

Rock on Bon Bons Chocolatier’s Milk Chocolate electric guitar, 100 Kisses tickets, dark chocolate sweet heart pop, & sequin filled, Be My Valentine card. Fill our new Denim one pound heart box with your selection of our hand crafted chocolates. Order early to avoid heartbreak!

Bon Bons Chocolatier 319 Main Street, Huntington 631-549-1059

With All My Heart Diamond Heart Pendant 1.38 CT. TW- set in 14kt White Gold Whitman Jewelry & Coins 552 Walt Whitman Road, Melville 631-673-0111

12 • village connection • february 2012

DEVIN JEWELERS Est. 1972

A Valentine’s Day She Won’t Soon Forget YOU LIGHT UP MY HEART

Happy Valentine’s Day HOURS Mon-Fri 9:30am-6pm Sat 9:30am-5pm

Custom Designs

All Work Done On Premises

Expert Jewelry & Watch Repair

536 Larkfield Road, East Northport • 631-368-7010

Your Northport Source

Annieglass • Belleek • Byers’ Choice • Crabtree & Evelyn Department 56 • Franz • Mariposa • Michael Aram Patience Brewster • Reed & Barton • Spartina • Tea Forte’ Vera Bradley • Trapp & Root Candles and Diffusers

European and American Selections new hours - open mon-sat 11am - 6 pm, sun 11am - 5pm

631-261-6001 101 Main Street, Northport

The From My Heart Jewelry Box an exclusive purchase for $39

village connection • february 2012 • 13

A Touch of Love Add a Touch of Love with some goodies from the Gourmet Whaler.

Chocolate Passion Body Powder, Gourmet Chocolate filled Heart Boxes, His & Hers Love Mugs, "I Heart you" 4pc fabric napkins, PBC & Gund Musical stuffed animals.

The Gourmet Whaler 111 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor, 631-559-6211

Olive You! Valentine's Day Baskets made to order!

The secret addition to a romantic homemade dinner...Strawberry Balsamic, Dark Chocolate balsamic, Tuscan Herb Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Champagne Dill Mustard, Truffle Salt Sampler Bottles of Fig Balsamic & Basil Extra Virgin Olive Oil Accompanied by a hand made "Olive You" card by Eileen Sanger The Crushed Olive 278 Main Street, Huntington 631-423-1500

the spirit of love Always feel connected to the one you love when you wear this necklace from Mariana Spirit of Design. This Guardian Angel Necklace is adorned with a beautiful Swarovski crystal front and "hidden" three dimensional Raphael-style angel on the back.

The Jewelry Collection 75 Main Street. Northport Village 631-754-1116

arm candy Ollin Arm Candy bags are made from recycled materials! Candy wrappers are used in the construction of each bag. It can take up to four thousand wrappers, and four days for an individual artisan to construct one bag. This unique process ensures that no two bags are the same.

The Corner - Gifts of All Kinds 1842 Jericho Tpke., Huntington 631-462-2233

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Exquisite 18K white gold antique style sapphire, yellow & white diamond rings.

The perfect way to say I love you! A “Timeless Design” now featured on the #1 bridal website the knot.

Carole’s Corner 816A Fort Salonga Road, Northport 631-757-1972

14 • village connection • february 2012

sweetie pie “It MUST be a Bearington!” The soft, friendly look makes it easy to distinguish a Bearington design from any other. The extreme detail that is put into completing each design results in the most adorable creations out there and a lovable way to show your Valentine just how much you care Cow Over the Moon 282 Main Street, Huntington 631-424-1796

Carole’s Corner: Fine Jewelry since 1984 Photos by Alan Pearlman

By Elise Pearlman For more than 27 years, customers have been discovering their heart’s desire, both for themselves or that special someone, at Carole’s Corner, located at 816A Ft. Salonga Road, Northport.

Owner Carole Singer prides herself on providing her clientele with truly unique merchandise, and accomplishes this by seeking out new designers and visiting the jewelry market in Manhattan on a weekly basis.

Carole’s inventory of fine jewelry spans the gamut from engagement rings, wedding bands and pearl necklaces to 14 and 18K gold, silver, and platinum jewelry necklaces, bracelets and earrings boasting precious and semi-precious stones. This fine jewelry boutique showcases Monarch, Angelique De Paris, Timeless Designs, Lyric, Crislu, Gabriel, Michou, Diana, Artcarved, Anna Beck, Bulova, Citizen, and Majorica among other designers.

In addition to time-tested classics, Carole seeks out the newest Ogiand hottest looks in stones and styles, including the colorful and whimsical creations of Holly Yashi and Vietnamese jewelry designer Nina Nguyen.

Many of Nina Nguyen’s designs, inspired by the beauty of nature, showcase slices of geodes and glittering druzies to glorious effect. Carole also carries Debbie Brooks’ beautifully embellished handbags.

Carole’s Corner is well-known for topnotch, personalized service, and the shop does it all, including repairs, remodeling, custom design, pearl-stringing, and watch batteries.

“Every customer is important,” said Carole, who calls upon her years of experience in designing and remodeling jewelry, and goes the extra mile in terms of customer satisfaction. The shop even maintains ‘wish lists’ to facilitate gift purchases.

Carole has a wide assortment of watches, tie tacks and cuff links to please that special Mr. Right, on Valentine’s Day or at any time of the year. The shop is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and until 8 pm on Friday evenings. All major credit cards are accepted. For information, call (631) 757- 1972.

village connection • february 2012 • 15

Get Carried Away eternal love

For the Art Lover What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day then with a beautiful romantic painting. “No Reason to go Inside” by Dan Del Orfano. Available as signed and numbered limited editions

Diamond "Eternity" Necklace 14.48 ct. set in 14K White Gold, Diamond Handmade Cuff Bracelet 12.65 ct. set in 18K White Gold and Diamond Handmade Dangle Drop Earrings 6.44 ct. set in 18k White Gold Devin Jewelers 536 Larkfield Road East Northport 631-368-7010

LaMantia Gallery, 127 Main Street Northport, 631-754-8414

Vera Bradley is a leader in fashionable, colorful, cotton quilted handbags, accessories, luggage, and gift items for women of every age.

Shown here are The Get Carried Away, Laura, Abby, & From My heart Jewelry Box all in the Rosy Posies Pattern. The Irresistible and collectible whimsy Annalee Dolls are Playfully crafted and true keepsakes, The unique dolls pictured here are magically fashioned as loving Valentines.

Cow Harbor Fine Gifts & Collectibles, 101 Main Street Northport, 631-261-6001

Native Love Mystic Warrior is a Native American reservation gift shop filled to the gills with Native American Art, Crafts, Jewelry, Gems, Sensuous Candles, Oils, Incense and so much more Mystic Warrior 10 Wall Street, Huntington 631-547-8418

A Rose By Any other name...

Diptyque Newest Fragrance - Eau Rose, A name that sounds like an ancient rose, descendant of the famous Damask rose... and a love story that has become a myth over the centuries...The Candle , Rosa Mundi, celebrates the multiple aromas of the rose in its natural state, as it blossoms over time

The Sunglasses for Men & Women continue to refine the TOM FORD vision of SEXY, High-Impact Eyewear. Shown here: Tom Ford Henri

Aromatherapy 326 Main Street, Huntington 631-692-2626

The Optical Shoppe 7 Wall Street, Huntington Village 631-271-1010

16 • village connection • february 2012

Sexy Shades

On Kara: Tesoro Earrings- Sterling Silver, 18k Yellow Gold & Diamonds Rodeo Necklace - Sterling Silver with Fresh Water Pearls Andrea II Ring- Sterling SIlver, 18k Yellow Gold & Diamonds The Window Shop Jewelers 104 Main Street, Northport 631-261-0436

village connection • february 2012 • 17

style - ralph rizzuto

Make Time For Yourself Now that the holidays are over, your New Year’s resolution should be to yourself. It’s time to make time for you! Make sure your plans include a monthly trip to the salon to help you look and feel great.

To help yourself establish good habits, always pre-book your salon appointments. You know that your hair will grow, and that your roots will return, so schedule your next appointment when you are still in the salon. Your hairdresser can help you estimate when you will need to return in order to keep the look you love, and don’t worry if you have to call and cancel; you will then be able to re-schedule while you are on the phone. Try requesting a reminder call the day before your appointment: most salons would be happy to accommodate you.

If you have waited too long, it’s often difficult to ask your hairdresser to squeeze you in; this may create a problem with his next client, and may cause you to be rushed through your service.

Should you decide to go to a salon where they don’t know you, your hair, or your style, what you and your hairdresser have been working on for months can be gone in just a few short minutes.

So, what is the best thing to do when your hair needs attention, and a regular appointment with your hairdresser is just not in the picture? First, why not try another hairdresser in the same salon?

77 EAST MAIN ST. HUNTINGTON 631-549-2887 Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9am-6pm Thurs. 10am-7pm Sat. 8:30am-5pm 18 • village connection • february 2012

Your regular stylist is there for a quick consultation, and your information may even be written down (hair color formula, etc.).

You may have much better luck than with trying a complete stranger.

Also, how about just applying color and returning at another time for a full haircut? Most clients say that they look and feel better with fresh color, and even the busiest salon may be able to fit you in for a quick touch-up. Last, try stopping in and asking your hairdresser to quickly trim your bangs, so that you can wait for the next available appointment. Most are happy to do this for regular customers.

A trip to the salon should be a relaxing experience; getting there is the challenge. So put yourself on your To-Do list; it’ll put you on the road to looking and feeling great!

Ralph Rizzuto is the owner of Sizzles Salon Ltd. in the same location at 77 East Main Street in Huntington. Sizzles Salon Ltd. will be celebrating its 24th year in business.

Formaldehyde FREE Keratin Relaxer We Now Feature NEO Hair Extensions & Feather Extensions

A Hint of Spring Flowers to melt the heart and bring out your inner Romance...

Laurel & Lily Florist 145 Main Street, Northport Village 631- 651-8889

A Kiss is But a Kiss

Chocolate Lover

Hershey’s Kisses Sterling silver cubic zirconia 16-18 inch adjustable necklace.

Starting at $119 A Kiss that lasts Forever.

The way to your Valentine's heart is making your chocolate lover's dream come true...

Libutti Jewelers, 336 New York Ave., Huntington, 631-427-0126

Chocolate with a Twist 528A Larkfield Rd. East Northport, 631-368-2462

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Contributors

On Valentine’s Day for the one you love....

Photography John Joseph Dowling Jr. - Weepwa.com Hair & Makeup anthony defranco salon & spa 333 East Jericho Turnpike Huntington Station 631-423-1111

% 20 off any purchase*

Creative Consultant MaryGrace Foti Model Kara Nicole Ramos Kara’s Clothes Clothes Horse 301 Route 110, Huntington 631-421-5700

816A Fort Salonga Road • Northport • 631-757-1972 wish list registry/gift wrapping/gift certificates/all credit cards *with this ad. engagement rings, watches, repair work and special orders not included. not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Expires 2/29/12

village connection • february 2012 • 19

fitness • kathleen tafti

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness gift cards available for valentine’s day

E

The re is a diffe rence 235 E. Main St., Huntington

631-549-5403

DIRT CHEAP CLEANING Commercial & Residential Cleaning Professional Floor Waxing Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Window Cleaning, Clean-Ups 631-673-8702

Jane’s Laundry quality & convenience

We will pick up, wash, dry, fold and deliver your laundry to your home or office

Have you ever had muscle soreness 2448 hours after working out? Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a normal response from your muscles after starting a new exercise program or after increasing the intensity or duration of your workout.

DOMS is actually important and helps your muscles adapt to new stressors, which in turn helps improve your stamina and strength. When we change our workouts, our muscles do not have memory of the new exercise and work harder to perform them. Working harder leads to tiny tears in the muscle fibers. These tiny tears then repair themselves, giving the muscles improved strength and endurance. Muscle soreness that occurs immediately after exercise is not DOMS and is due to lactic acid build-up in the muscles. Lactic acid clears out in approximately 30 minutes. Immediate soreness can impact performance towards the end of a workout and is not beneficial.

DOMS supports the idea of “muscle confusion.” To become more fit we must confuse our muscles by constantly changing our workouts. There has been some controversy over how we avoid the pain of DOMS. Some researchers feel that the cool down and stretching at the end of the workout is the best way to control pain levels from DOMS. Some believe that the cool down only reduces lactic acid and immediate muscle

hair salons & physical therapists welcome 631-673-1314 28 New Street • Huntington Village (Next to Value Drugs)

20 • village connection • february 2012

soreness. Others believe that the warm up is more important because increasing the temperature within the muscles can reduce the pain associated with DOMS. Once you have DOMS what should you do? Stretch a lot!! Most people do not stretch enough. You should stretch every day and definitely after every workout.

Use an ice pack on the sore muscles for the first 72 hours. After 72 hours you can use a heating pad if your prefer. DOMS should start to subside after three or four days. Most importantly, keep moving. Do not sit around for a few days as you will just feel stiff. Take a power walk or a lowimpact cardiovascular workout for a few days and you should be ready to get back to challenging your body in no time.

Kathleen Tafti PT, MS, CSCS, is the owner of Fit Body Bootcamp in Greenlawn - www. fitbodybootcampli.com

You won’t believe how simple it is to find us at The Corner...

ONCE YOU’VE ARRIVED YOU WON’T BELIEVE WHAT YOU’LL FIND!

Come to The Corner, a gift store like no other.

We’ll surprise you with our style, selections and personalized service. Gift wrapping complimentary.

COME FIND SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOUR

Valentine

Conveniently located at the corner of East Deer Park Rd. &Jericho Tpke.

1842 Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-462-2233 • thecorneronline.com In the Dix Hills Super Center

use left turning lane to enter side street entrance

17th ANNIVERSARY SALE 40% off jewelry & crystals

village connection • february 2012 • 21

village connections • danielle kraese

Comedian Jack Simmons Gives Huntington Inhabitants an Inspiring Gift As a polished comedian, Long Island native Jack Simmons is accustomed to standing before an audience of unfamiliar faces and reducing them to belly laughs. But with his nationally applauded, one-man performance, “Buddy’s Gift,” he’s sharing something more personal than punch lines and inciting something far more influential than laughter.

When Simmons’ late father, Buddy Simmons, was given a grave and imminent diagnosis more than ten years ago, the lives of his family were brought to a disorienting halt as they struggled to come to terms with the devastating development.

They eventually found themselves experiencing a spiritual awakening in the face of his death.

“Buddy’s Gift” is the touching true tale of a family’s realization that the warmth felt from a loved one can continue to live on long after death.

Simmons shares his story on a sparsely set stage designed to resemble a living room, with his moving monologue serving as the driving force of the show.

But Simmons prefers not to refer to his creation as a “show,” feeling that this makes it sound like some sort of rehearsed song and dance. In actuality, it’s simply one brazen man, his powerful story, and a room full of willing ears.

“It’s a beautiful love story that involves spirituality,” said Simmons, “but it isn’t just about afterlife communication.”

A World War II veteran and beloved patriarch of a close-knit Catholic family, Buddy Simmons was the type of father who worked three jobs to support his wife and seven kids and was never caught complaining. But in 1999, he was diagnosed with liver cancer and told his time left was scarce.

Suddenly, his children, who had never been particularly spiritual, found themselves searching for any source of comfort that would help them cope. What they found was a trove of literature dealing with the concept of “crossing over.” Simmons and his siblings began embracing a new outlook on death that was much less final.

In those last few days leading up to Buddy’s death, strange things began to occur and continued to persist well after his passing. At first, Simmons and his family tried to chalk it up to a series of bizarre coincidences. But eventually it became impossible to ignore the possibility of something significant transpiring.

“Once we acknowledge the signs… that’s when things go haywire,” he said.

Before his father’s health took a heartbreaking turn, Simmons career in stand-up was in full flourish. He had racked up television appearances on HBO, VH1, Showtime, and was even featured on the

22 • village connection • february 2012

popular CBS show, “Star Search.” But in the wake of his father’s passing and the successive smattering of incredible occurrences shared amongst his family, Simmons decided he needed to redirect his focus in the interest of sharing his story.

“It was a very powerful thing for me that pulled me away from my normal life,” he said.

“I just knew it was a story that had to be told.”

Simmons temporarily put his comedy career on hold to focus on a poetic new project.

“I thought what I would do is I would rent out a little theater and just tell the story to family and friends,” said Simmons.

Of course, this did not go as planned. More than ten years later, he has reenacted “Buddy’s Gift” over a hundred times at venues all over Long Island as well as in California, and the scheduling of new dates never seems to cease.

“Doing stand up for 20 years gave me the poise, the confidence, to actually be able to stand on stage and tell this story,” said Simmons.

Simmons eventually returned to comedy, and now finds that “Buddy’s Gift” has helped audience members to appreciate his stand-up on a deeper level—much of his material mentions numerous details regarding his family, and by the end of “Buddy’s Gift,” viewers usually feel they know each member quite well.

In the course of a night, Simmons has seen many skeptics make the unthinkable transformation into believers. Various guest speakers— including spiritual mediums—have even helped to enhance the show by getting audience members involved more directly.

Although, the purpose of the show is not to convert the beliefs of the conservative, but to share his story as he lived it and impart a soothing message.

“When somebody passes over, their love is still there for you,” he said.

See “Buddy’s Gift” at the Conklin Barn, 2 High Street Huntington on February 4,11 & 18 (Saturday) at 7:30 p.m, February February 26 (Sunday) at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20. Call or e-mail to reserve: 310933-2608 or buddysgift@gmail.com.

Visit www.buddysgift.com for updates and additional dates.

Danielle Kraese has been a Huntington resident since back in the days when nobody could beat The Wiz. She graduated from the University at Albany with a degree in Journalism and has since enjoyed learning more about her lively hometown through writing about it. More of her work can be seen at: www.daniellekraese.com.

FF 0 O edure 0 1 c $ l Prso3/1/12 a t n e De Expir

Come see the one-of-a-kind Francis Klein Collection in our beautiful new showroom

Eye Exams • Contact Lenses • Designer Eyewear • Sport Glasses Dr. Richard E. Young • Dr. Arlene L. Vazquez-Young

631-757-6190 • 89 Main St., Northport • mainstreetoptometry.net village connection • february 2012 • 23

finance • george elkin

What Is an Exchange-Traded Fund?

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are just one of the many types of investment funds available, but they have some qualities that are unique and set them apart from other vehicles. ETFs are securities that attempt to track all types of indexes, industries, or commodities. For example, an ETF might be made up of securities representative of the technological industry or of the S&P 500.* When ETFs were first created in the 1990s, the aim was to mimic the movements of an index of a specific financial benchmark. Today, ETFs also follow industries and commodities, not just indexes. The investment vehicle with the sole purpose of mirroring a specific index is called an index fund.

One of the reasons some investors may choose ETF funds is because they combine the diversification of a mutual fund with the flexibility of a stock. ETFs do not have their net asset values calculated each day, as do typical mutual funds, but rather their prices may fluctuate throughout the day based on the rate of demand on the open market.

Although the value of an ETF comes from the worth of the underlying assets comprising it, shares may trade at a “premium” or a “discount.” ETF shares are sold on stock exchanges; investors can buy or sell them at any time during the day.

The underlying assets of the fund are not affected by market trading.

Exchange-traded funds may have expense ratios that are lower than those of an average mutual fund, and they are usually more tax-efficient than most mutual funds. Additionally, shareholders can often invest as little or as much as they desire. However, an ETF cannot be

redeemed by a shareholder; rather, it can be sold only on the stock market.

A downside to exchange-traded funds is the commission fee, which is generally not associated with a mutual fund. Commissions are involved because ETFs are traded like stocks, rather than like mutual funds. However, despite this downside, an ETF can be a diversified and low-cost investment that often has a low turnover rate, so you might want to consider ETFs as part of your investment portfolio. Keep in mind that diversification is a method to help manage investment risk; it does not guarantee against loss.

The return and principal value of ETF and mutual fund shares fluctuate with market conditions. Shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

Exchange-traded funds and mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the investment company, can be obtained from your financial professional. Be sure to read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to invest. * The S&P 500 is an unmanaged group of securities that is widely recognized as being representative of the U.S. stock market in general. The performance of an unmanaged index is not indicative of the performance of any specific investment. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index.

The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties.

You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.

George Elkin is a Registered Representative offering Securities through American Portfolios Financial Services, Inc. Member: FINRA, SIPC. Investment Advisory products/services are offered through American Portfolios Advisors Inc., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. G.R. Reid Consulting Services, LLC is not a registered investment advisor and is independent of American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. and American Portfolios Advisors Inc. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the written advice in this memorandum or its attachments is not intended or written to be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code. Information is time sensitive, educational in nature, and not intended as investment advice or solicitation of any security.

24 • village connection • february 2012

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artistic expression • frank esposito

HEART EMOTION ATTRACTION REACTION TRUTH Will you be my mine? Happy Valentine Love is in the air, you can see it everywhere in the people we meet or in the gift of a day.

Spending time with family and friends – such is a gift – some needing us & sometimes we needing them – helping each other make it to the next.

Listen to your Heart & you shall hear the most beautiful music Dancing across the floor so light on our feet that nothing matters at all. For we’ve found our special someone a place of wonder and Embrace, Attraction and Truth a Reaction deep in your Heart! You have no excuse! So I’ll ask you again!

Will you be mine? Happy Valentine How long shall I wait for the promise of this date?

A couple born in Love to live a life- to death do we part then to begin again – laughing, and crying along the way thru this garden of mystery & wonder!

I’ll give you a candy Heart, as sweet as you are, and flowers as beautiful for your eyes. I’ll sing to you a song for what could be wrong, I’m floating on air all the days & nights long.

LOVE OFFERING VIRTUOUS EMBRACE Spread the word – hey haven’t you heard “Love is in the air”.

The people on the streets all over the town’s and the ones we meet in the country round Furthermore all over this world to The Human Race - may a Valentine be hurled to bring Peace Goodwill & Grace.

As the warm winter snows meet the spring & flowers begin to open and the birds return to sing you shall always know You would make mine a Happy Valentines?

Day!!!

village connection • february 2012 • 27

wellness • dr. stephen atkins

Are You “Secretly” Allergic To Gluten?

Have you noticed the growing number of wheat-free/gluten-free alternatives in the marketplace? More and more people are discovering sensitivity to wheat and gluten products. Get ready, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In the coming years there will be an avalanche of gluten sensitive cases as testing becomes more convenient.

What was once thought to be limited to GI disturbances, gluten sensitivity has now been shown to cause multiple problems and in fact can have major effects on brain function, longevity, and autoimmunity.

So, what is gluten? What’s the big deal about it? Gluten is the major protein fraction of wheat and contains two other fractions, gliaden and glutenin.

Gluten is sticky like glue and is present in many foods. Some you would suspect like bread, cereal, pasta, baked goods, crackers, or pretzels and some you wouldn’t think of like cheese, ice cream, beer, soup, yogurt, lunch meats, and more.

For some people, the inability to tolerate these proteins can be a major focal point of their disease process. Traditional symptoms of celiac or wheat allergies include GI disturbances like diarrhea, gas, constipation, nausea, severe intestinal pain, and cramping. The ultimate diagnosis of celiac is when biopsys of the small intestine show villi atrophy.

What has been surprising to many of the scientific community is that when a broad population of “healthy” people, both young and old, have their intestines examined, a number of people have documented GI damage without traditional symptoms. But these people have damage in other areas of the body as well. Sometimes it is severe neurological damage.

You see, when we eat foods we are sensitive to, we make antibodies to those foods, and then those antibodies can attack our tissues and sometimes that tissue is brain tissue. Let’s look at some of the conditions associated with gluten sensitivities: migraine headaches, autoimmune disease, dermatitis, severe progressive neuropathy, gait and limb ataxia, iron deficiency, osteoporosis, GERD, seizures, ADD, and ADHD. Other studies show atrophy of the cerebellum, severe malabsorption, unexplained neurological changes, even the occurrence of schizophrenia is higher with gluten intolerant individuals.

It makes sense that multiple systems would be affected if we had small intestine malabsorption issues and leaky gut due to gluten sensitivity and the inflammation that accompanies it. Normally, the intact gut provides a very effective barrier against the penetration of

28 • village connection • february 2012

antibodies or macromolecules. A damaged gut, however, becomes "leaky" and allows the passage of larger molecules.

As gluten ingestion continues, the autoimmune reaction is further exacerbated. This creates a self perpetuated state of bowel inflammation that can only be broken by removing the offending peptide, gluten. So for gluten intolerant people if you eat wheat, your body makes antibodies to it. Those antibodies begin to break down tissue. It may be in your gut or other areas like brain, thyroid, kidneys, or pancreas.

Let’s look at a similar issue that occurs with prolonged exposure to gluten for sensitive individuals. Perfusion is a process where blood is sprayed into the brain much like a garden hose spray. With the wheat sensitive individual the spray is limited, causing less blood and therefore less oxygen to the brain. One study showed that plaqueing in the brain as documented by an MRI was reversed in several individuals with wheat allergies when they got off wheat for one year.

Let me repeat that because it has such profound implications.

For wheat sensitive patients with documented plaque in their brains, when they got off gluten the plaqueing reversed and disappeared.

This is the type of plaqueing that is found in Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis as well as other advanced neurological conditions.

How many people have reduced mental capacity because they have gluten/gliaden sensitivities? How many children or adults have ADD or ADHD? How many people with anxiety or depression are suffering because they don’t have enough blood to their brain and get confused by the complexities of life? A lot of people. I have heard a number of clinicians over the years say that as many as 50% of patients with chronic health problems will do better if they remove wheat and dairy from their diets.

If you know someone with chronic illness send them this article.

Begin to notice the gluten in your diet. You'll be surprised how many foods contain wheat. Be aware of gluten. It’s worth looking into.

Dr. Stephen Atkins, PhD is the owner of Atkins Wellness Solutions, Nutritional Consultants located at 75 Prospect Street, Suite 114 in Huntington. Visit his website at atkinswellness.com or call 631-470-2499.

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All artwork, design & layout by Village Connection Magazine, Inc. is sole property of the publisher and may not be reproduced in whole or part. The publisher will not be responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, and such responsibility, is any, shall be limited only to the first use of advertising in the case of repeated use. The publisher reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising at its sole discretion. Position requests can not be guaranteed. 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 Village Connection Magazine, Inc.

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lucky to live here • elena d’agostino

Year-End Comparision Market Report for the Five Harbor School Districts:

Total Residential Sales 2010

2011

Cold Spring Harbor SD #2

78

80

Huntington SD #3

270

251

Harborfields SD #6

140

141

Northport-E. Northport SD#4

247

251

The above statistics are based on Multiple Listing Service information.

In addition to the above chart, I have compiled stats for 2011 that include average number of days on market, average sales price as well as highest and lowest sales price. Overall, the local market shows a slight increase in number of sales in most areas, as shown above, and a decrease in average sales price. I am very optimistic that the minimal differences in figures as compared to 2010 indicate that the local market is stabilizing and heading towards a recovery.

If you currently have your house on the market, or are considering selling, it is crucial to stay current on sales in your school district.

The market value of a house is dictated by what a buyer is willing

34 • village connection • february 2012

to pay. Buyers (as well as appraisers) use recent home sales (aka comparables) to help determine market value.

Keep up-to-date on sales throughout the year by checking my Market Report which I post monthly on www.luckytolivehere.com.

I include total number of listed properties and specifics (address, taxes, #bedrooms, etc.) on under-contract and closed transactions.

Please contact me at elena@luckytolivehere.com if you would like the complete 2011-2010 comparison report and/or the monthly reports. I’m also always available to answer your questions by phone and can be reached at 631-835-2759.

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The Killer Reef The Eaton’s Neck lighthouse was built to warn of a “great reef of rocks, dangerous to shipping,” in the words of Joshua Hartt.

Even after the lighthouse provided warning of the danger, many ships still foundered on the reef which extends north and east for three-quarters of a mile. Remnants of over 200 ships lie below the waters of the Long Island Sound near the reef.

One storm in December 1811 caused the loss of 60 ships and many lives. At the time the only assistance available to the unfortunate mariners came from local volunteers who would answer the lighthouse keeper’s call. Finally in 1849, the Life Saving Benevolent Association of New

York opened a station near the lighthouse, but it still functioned on a volunteer basis.

On another December day in 1873, the Florence V. Turner hit the reef. William Perotte, the lighthouse keeper at the time, had difficulty assembling volunteers that day to rescue the crew. Later in the day, another schooner was driven into the reef.

The life-saving party was able to rescue the captain, his wife, and four of the crew, but lost three others. At that point, Perrotte decided to petition the federal government to establish a full- time life-saving station near the lighthouse.

In March 1875, Congress established the U.S. Life-Saving Service. The new

Bob Little is a long-time resident of the Northport area who greatly enjoys delving into the community’s fascinating history and writing his column for the Northport Historical Society.

36 • village connection • february 2012

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federal station on Eaton’s Point was opened on November 15, 1876 with improved equipment and facilities to house a paid crew of six surfmen under the command of Darius Ruland, the lighthouse keeper at the time. The men lived in the top floor of the station and provided 24-hour monitoring of the reef.

They were in residence during the “active season” (August 1 to May 31) each year. During June and July they would take their vacation while the keeper monitored the reef.

In 1915, The U.S. Life-Saving Service merged with the U.S. Coast Guard. Because of a significant reduction of shipping on the Sound between 1915 and 1920, the government closed the station in 1921. The reef, however, continued to claim ships and lives. Finally an active Coast Guard base was re-established in 1935. A new station was built in 1937 and the original building erected in 1849 was demolished in 1954.

Today Station Eaton’s Neck is staffed by 33 active service members and 18 reservists who maintain a 24-hour radio watch to answer calls for assistance throughout the middle portion of the Sound. Their area of responsibility now extends far beyond the killer reef.

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village connection • february 2012 • 37

Special Birthdays are Celebrated at Huntington Center!

Nurturing With Love Parent Involvement With Suzuki Method of Learning

Your child will be the star at their birthday party.

Choose from many themes: Alice in Wonderland or Sleeping Beauty Tea Party, Nutcracker, Pirates or Fashion Show Pizza party.

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Upcoming Events for February at the Center Valentine's Day Tea Party for ages 3-7yrs February 12, 2012 11:30 - 1:30pm Free Admission- space is limited - reservations required. Tea,lemonade,sweets & petit sandwiches will be served. Each child will enjoy a class, making a craft and performances by Suzuki Music School and pre-professional dancers from L'Academie de Danse ballet school.

March 31 - Mid-winter international music & dance concert at the Center.An assortment of dance styles including classical ballet, contemporary ballet,Ukranian & Russian folk dancing, Flamenco and more will be presented.

Music performed by Inessa (Ukranian professional violinist), Suzuki Violin Ensemble and many others. 5pm or 7pm performances - Free Admission

By Joan Mongada Albright Starting a young child in a music program at the tender age of 3 or 4 will have a positive impact on their physical, emotional and cognitive development. We certainly do not wait until a child goes to school to begin teaching them their language so why wait to introduce them to music?

Such is the essence of the Suzuki method of learning named for Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Dr. Suzuki adapted the same method used naturally by parents to teach their children (practically from birth) to speak their language to the process of learning how to play violin (cello, piano ).

The Suzuki method involves the parent as part of the teaching team and uses the auditory method of learning. The note –reading comes later, but first the musical ear is developed and so the students play by memory. Developing memory skills, small motor skills and self confidence are all by-products of this methodology.

The program expects the parent to be involved in the daily practice (only 10 min a day) and attend private and group classes to witness the process first hand. To be able to bring mom, dad or beloved caregiver to class is an added bonus for the very young child. The program develops the musician using classical repertoire from Bach to Vivaldi but starts with the very popular children’s song Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star for which there are 4 variations in addition to the theme. In addition to a weekly private lesson the students learn in a group class setting that ensures social interaction, fun and solo performance. The Suzuki method emphasizes encouragement, repetition and patience – valuable parenting skills not just reserved for music class.

Joan Mongada Albright is Co-Director and Faculty member of Huntington Center for Performing Arts, located at 310 New York Ave. Huntington Village

38 • village connection • february 2012

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designer look • barbara simons THE LARGEST AUDI DEALER IN SUFFOLK COUNTY

Midwinter Dreams

Of Colorful Springs

February.

A traditionally cold, bleak month.

If we’re lucky a crocus might show up to break the grey and white monotony of the shortest month. Even though it’s Leap Year, we still get through this still, freezing month in less time than any other!

Valentine’s Day is the bright spot for many, and President’s Week brings a welcome vacation for lucky families, but essentially these are only reminders of how essentially unlovable February can be. Here’s an idea--for those of you who want to do some decorating later on, why not start the planning now?

This is a great time of year to be thinking about color. If you are working with a neutral “four-seasons” palette, whereby your main pieces are in neutral colors, you can start dreaming about bringing spring and summer into your home with paint and accessories. If you look at past warmseason issues of magazines which you have kept for their cheerful ideas, you can get a jump on design dreaming before the 2012 issues with their pastel-hued covers appear.

A little bit of inspiration may be all you need to motivate you to do some early planning.

Once holiday season is over, editors are aware that readers want to see the opposite of what they were promoting in the months leading up to Christmas. Nothing says “enough winter!” like the wind blowing

through you as you walk your best fourlegged friend each day. So, start springdreaming now!

Check out design web sites for information on color f o r e c a s t e r ’s predictions on the interesting color directions for this year.

The Pantone c o m p a n y predicts the color trends in fashion which cross over into home design colors and finishes. When I peruse the Javits Gift Show, these trends appear in many incarnations, showing the trade buyers what people will be wanting to be surrounded by this coming season.

If you are judicious in using the “flavor of the moment” colors and finishes, you can add a great deal of interest without the “buyer’s remorse”of purchasing the “honeysuckle” sofa, when “honeysuckle” is the hot color of 2012, and it’s 2015.

Explore the use of faux-snakeskin, metallic glazes, ikat patterns (recolored for today) and many motifs from nature.. Craftinspired design (such as tie-dye!) will help you to plan ways to make your home look updated and fresh, but yours alone.

Don’t forget that the biggest impact for the least amount of money is found in a gallon of paint. The wind may be howling “Winter!” but in the local paint store it can be whatever season you’re dreaming of.

Barbara Simons is president of the interior design firm, Simons Design Group and is a member of the Interior Design Society of the United States. Reach her at 631-424-2100 or simonsdes@aol.com.

42 • village connection • february 2012

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44 • village connection • february 2012

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village connection • february 2012 • 45

playing it safe • david tuohy

snowmobile safety tips Yes, it’s that time of year again! If you enjoy snowmobiling, there are a few things you should know before jumping on that sled!

A snowmobile is only as safe as the driver: The key to safe operation is knowing the machine, good judgment and courtesy. Your snowmobile’s safety features should be kept in good working order. Do not modify your machine. Make sure that the throttle, brake, steering and light systems all function properly. Never operate your machine unless the hood and the guards are in place and firmly attached. If your machine is equipped with an emergency switch, check its operation.

Always carry the minimum safety equipment: a tool kit, a knife, spark plugs, drive belt, first aid kit, rope, waterproof matches, a flashlight and an extra ignition key. Add more items to this list for long or night snowmobile trips.

Always play safe with children aboard: Go slowly with young passengers. Exert extra care. Avoid side hills and broken terrain. See that the child firmly grips the handles and protectively sits with both feet on the running boards. Check frequently to make sure the child is riding correctly. Always position small children so they can be watched. Use moderate speeds. Too much speed over a bump could result in a serious back injury to a passenger. Warn your passenger of dangerous branches or low hanging limbs that must be avoided.

Don’t ride in adverse weather conditions: Plan your trip and check the trails you’ll be riding prior to departure. Check trail conditions and trail maps.

Don’t drink alcohol and ride: Alcohol is a factor in over 70% of all fatal accidents, as well as many non-deadly snowmobile

accidents. Alcohol and drugs have a negative effect on the driver’s vision, balance, coordination, and reaction time.

Never Ride Alone: Always ride with a friend on another snowmobile. This way if one machine is disabled, you have another to get help.

Dress for safety & survival: Always wear a quality DOT helmet and facemask. Wear layers of clothing to keep warm and dry. Snowmobile suits, bibs, jackets, gloves and mittens should cut the wind, repel water and keep you ventilated.

Slow down: Excessive speed is a major factor in many accidents, especially at night. To help avoid accidents, keep your night time speed under 40 MPH Almost every trail is a “two way” trail: So stay to the far right of the trail, especially on hills and corners. Obey all trail signs and cross roadways with extreme caution.

Riding on ice - lakes & rivers: It is safest to avoid riding on lakes and rivers. If you must ride on ice, wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) over your outer clothing. Stay on the marked trail and stay off of ice that has moving water (current) near or under it - ice in these areas may be thin and weak David Tuohy, Jr. is a dedicated Allstate agent and owner of The Tuohy Agency located at 233 East Main Street in Huntington. Visit his website at allstateagencies.com/DavidTuohyJr, or you can reach him at Davidtuohyjr@allstate.com or 631-423-1200.

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Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.

46 • village connection • february 2012

Portraiture

A Common Theme: An Exhibition of Portraits and Figures Juror: Burton Silverman

All styles and interpretations are encouraged

May 20, 2012 - June 17, 2012

Deadline for receipt of application is Monday, April 2, 2012 Prospectus is available online at www.artleagueli.org Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery 107 E. Deer Park Rd. Dix Hills, NY 11746

631.462.5400

Stop by and sampl e over 50 Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars!

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278 Main Street, Huntington • 631-423-1500 • thecrushedolive.com COME VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION - 133 MAIN STREET, STONY BROOK VILLAGE • 631-675-6266

village connection • february 2012 • 47

&

Art Galleries Alfred van Loen Gallery South Huntington Public Library 145 Pidgeon Hill Rd., Huntington Station 631-549-4411 www.shpl.info/about_gallery.asp Art League of Long Island 107 East Deer Park Rd., Melville 631-462-5400 www.artleagueli.org Original Oil by Jaline Pol

Art-Trium Gallery 25 Melville Park Rd., Melville 631-271-8423 www.huntingtonarts.org b.j. spoke gallery 299 Main St., Huntington 631-549-5106 www.bjspokegallery.com Cold Spring Harbor

Museums

Fish Hatchery & Aquarium 1660 Rt. 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 631-692-6768 www.cshfha.org Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor 631-367-3418 www.cshwhalingmuseum.org Conklin Farmhouse 2 High Street, Huntington 631-427-7045 www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org FotoFoto Gallery 372 New York Ave., Huntington 631-549-0448 www.fotofotogallery.com Greenlawn – Centerport Historical Association Museum

b.j. spoke gallery - Artists’ Choice Exhibition Through Wednesday, February 26 Artist’s Reception on Saturday, February 4 from 6-9 pm b. j. spoke gallery’s exhibit this coming month will compare and contrast artists’ interpretations of subject matter and styles. It is another community outreach as gallery members invite artists they respect and admire to show with them.

Ronnie Sussman - “Redirect”

48 • village connection • february 2012

featured artist

Harborfields Public Library 31 Broadway, Greenlawn 631-754-1180 www.gcha.info Heckscher Museum of Art 2 Prime Ave., Huntington 631-351-3250 www.heckscher.org Lamantia Gallery 127 Main St., Northport 631-754-8414 www.lamantiagallery.com Main Street Petite Art Gallery 213 Main St., Huntington 631-271-8423 www.huntingtonarts.org Northport Historical Museum 215 Main St., Northport 631-757-9859 www.northporthistorical.org

david wiseltier

David Wiseltier is a graduate of New York City’s prestigious High School of Music and Art and the recipient of a scholarship in fine art to the Parsons School of Design. He continued to create, show and sell his work while pursuing an award-winning career as an advertising Creative Director in New York City and an instructor at New York’s School of Visual Arts.

He now follows his passion full time, working in mixed media that include watercolors, acrylics, stone and fabric on canvas. He constantly explores working with new materials, often those found in nature, and is stimulated by the challenge of expanding his range and in using everyday objects as vehicles for his creativity.

David has had one-man shows and had award-winning entries in juried group shows at venues that include the Theatre for the New City Gallery in NYC, the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, CT, the Manyunk Arts Festival, Millbrook “Art in the Attic”, Arts & Crafts on Park Avenue, Suite Designs Gallery in Beacon, NY, The Cunneen-Hackett Cultural Center and the IBM Gallery in Poughkeepsie, NY, The Art League Gallery in Dix Hills, and Art-rium in Melville. His work is also held in private and corporate collections. He can be reached at david@wiseltier.com.

Ripe Art Gallery 67a Broadway, Greenlawn 631-239-1805 www.ripeartgal.com Vanderbilt Museum 180 Little Neck Rd., Centerport 631-854-5579 www.vanderbiltmuseum.org Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site 246 Old Walt Whitman Rd. Huntington Station 631-427-5240 www.waltwhitman.org

“Riptide” was inspired by the waters that surround us here on Long Island.

village connection • february 2012 • 49

seniors • nick radesca

Jobless High-Tech World I watched a silly animated movie with my grandchildren which took place in the distant future when no one worked because technology had advanced to the point where computers and robots did everything.

Even though people didn’t work, they still owned every conceivable high tech device, modernistic homes and cool Star Wars type hover cars to take them anywhere they wanted. I wondered how this animated society evolved to their happy jobless high-tech world.

Evidently, somewhere in their history, computers entered on the scene and everyone went bonkers. Businesses eagerly made use of the newest technology to shrink costs – especially labor costs. People joined in the fun by using the latest tech gadgets to save time and money - preferring ATMs to tellers, emails to snail mail, automated lanes to toll collectors, etc. Most consumers developed an addiction to internet shopping thus pitting business against business while shunning stores and cashiers. Even governments used unmanned drones to fight wars. While technology was eliminating jobs and lowering wages, it spurred population growth with better healthcare.

A destructive trend developed: to survive in the superfierce high-tech marketplace businesses had no choice but to use technology to cut labor costs to the bone.

Governments faced with falling tax revenue joined in and

laid-off workers to cut their massive deficits. When the amount (and distribution) of wages reached the point where it could not sustain the swelling population, persistent high unemployment became the norm forcing economies of the world into prolonged recessions, companies into bankruptcy and people everywhere into poverty.

In the meantime hoping to avert a worldwide panic, the captains of industry partnered with government officials to keep the disastrous technology-for-jobs process quiet until a solution was found. But the coverup made matters worse when the extreme strategies they tried failed to restore general prosperity. In fact the stomach-churning boom-to-bust cycles that resulted alarmed everyone. Eventually the impoverished populace having enough of politicians’ doubletalk began resorting to strikes, demonstrations and riots. Amid the turmoil the truth was revealed to everyone’s shock. Then with public support a super panel was convened and using powerful computer models it came up with an ingenious solution that led to the movie’s prosperous jobless world.

Nick Radesca is a volunteer at SeniorNet FSL, a not-forprofit learning center dedicated to training seniors in computer technology (seniornethuntington.org). He can be reached at 631-427-3700, x268 or nick2p@yahoo.com.

875 EAST JERICHO TURNPIKE • HUNTINGTON STATION, NY 11746

50 • village connection • february 2012

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village connection • february 2012 • 51

outdoor living • charles h. gamarekian

Think Spring Warm Up at a Local Home & Garden Show

For many homeowners, the cold, first quarter climate in the northeast conjures up thoughts of taking a 7-day Caribbean cruise, grabbing a 4-day Island getaway or hopping on a plane with the whole family for a quick jaunt to a Florida theme park. On the other hand, some homeowners “think spring” by hopping in a car and moseying to one of many of the area’s pre-season, home and garden shows. Why? These folks have opted to travel down the road of a “stay-cation” by planning early to turn their backyards into a virtual paradise for family and friends to enjoy at a moments notice… day or night… season after season. There, in the warmth of a large exhibit hall they will delight in the many floral and plant displays, listen to the sales pitches of window and siding merchants, and check out current trends in paver and manufactured wall colors and textures along with the very latest in outdoor living room designs.

Today’s home show experience offers an abundance of time saving information gathered with plenty of visual back up. Hardscape product manufacturers, professional landscape designers and contractors realize that for a few hours they have a captive audience, so nothing is overlooked in their presentations. Days are spent creating realistic patio environments complete with all the trimmings and plenty of new product showcasings. You can expect to find open air kitchens with high-end, stainless steel appliance packages and outdoor, wood-fired pizza ovens that allow cooking enthusiasts to bake pizza, breads and other dishes in authentic European style. Your shopping list doesn’t have to stop there. Discover mesmerizing water features as well as barbecue and fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that put fireside chatting in a whole new perspective. There are also casual seating and outdoor dining ideas, all made from or designed around manufactured hardscape materials.

Most show attendees are on a mission and, although they enjoy the general mixed bag of presenters, gravitate to the booths that fall within that focus of products and services. Consequently, it is important to know what to look for as you cruise aisle after aisle of booths, large and small. Take advantage of engaging company representatives who

52 • village connection • february 2012

are only too willing to answer questions from interested parties. Try to find scheduled, live demonstrations, which usually cover the most common inquiries and concerns, including instructions for do-it-yourselfers, needed specifications, care and maintenance factors and much more.

Look for brands that you know and trust. Also realize that although many manufacturers offer similar products, features and benefits can differ greatly from one brand to another.

Another detail to be mindful of is the coordination of both the color palette and textures of the products in your overall hardscape design. Don’t forget that paver and wall lighting is also available from well-stocked hardscape distributors who may be exhibiting at the show. Therefore, it is possible to find a single source manufacturer for all of your hardscape products, planning, implementation and installation needs.

Inquire with exhibiting manufacturers and professional installers as to what colors, shapes and textures were the most popular last year and which, if any, are trending toward this season.

This can be a great help in the decision making process. Product managers at most well-managed contractors and distributors keep track of these facts in order to maintain adequate inventory levels for on-demand product availability.

Carry a pen and pad with you to make notes of things like website addresses and brands that impressed you. Pick up current brochures, flyers and other printed materials so that you can organize your findings for future reference.

Most importantly, think spring and enjoy the show.

Charles H. Gamarekian is the Chairman/CEO of Cambridge Pavers, Inc. He is recognized worldwide as an expert in his field and is a frequent speaker on the proper installation of paving stones, wall stones and many outdoor living products. Email him at cgamarekian@cambridgepavers.com.

village connection • february 2012 • 53

Huntington • 414 New York Avenue 631-418-1000 Oyster Bay • 116 South Street 516-624-0132

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54 • village connection • february 2012

rugs - the safest investment

mirza rug gallery

invest in your HOME

In today’s uncertain economic climate, handwoven rugs are not only beautiful, but have proven to be a safe financial investment.

Mirza Rug Gallery in Huntington Village carries a wide selection of antique, antique reproduction and new decorative rugs from all over the globe, including Persia, China, India, Pakistan and other regions.

Their showroom features an unparalleled selection of rug styles and designs featuring traditional, tribal, transitional, French, Savonnerie and Aubussons for every lifestyle and taste. The extensive array of designs and unique selection can transform your home interior from ordinary to extraordinary.

“What distinguishes us is not only our fine quality products, huge selection and excellent prices, but our impeccable service,” says owner Mimi Mirshokraie. “We are dedicated to finding the perfect piece for any room of your house, even if it is a custom size.” The company also offers professional cleaning, repairs and appraisals.

Mirza has been a fixture in Huntington Village for over 20 years, serving as the showroom of choice for decorators, designers and customers alike. “We pride ourselves on our ability to educate customers about the different categories, value, care and styles available in our collection of exquisite rugs.” says Mimi. That kind of personal service, is indeed, priceless.

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345 Main Street, Huntington Village • 631-385-4700 www.mirzarugs.com village connection • february 2012 • 55

56 • village connection • february 2012

village connection • february 2012 • 57

THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD ON LONG ISLAND! We at Oaxaca would like to thank you for making us Huntington’s favorite Mexican Restaurant.

“A place where you can expect to find real Mexican food.”

– Newsday

Rated Excellent Food and Service by Zagat for 2009 / 2010

385 New York Avenue • Huntington Village • Phone: 631-547-1232 www.oaxacamenu.com • FACEBOOK: OAXACA MEXICAN FOOD TREASURE Open 7 Days A Week

Friday & Saturday: 11AM-10PM • Sunday-Thursday: 11AM-9PM • Sunday: 11AM-9PM

“You won’t mistake it for any of the local Mexican establishments — an accomplishment in itself.” – Newsday

Come delight in food from the heart of Mexico right in the heart of Huntington!

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Communions, Showers, Any Occasion

LIVE MUSIC: WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY HAPPY HOUR: 4-7 PM ONLY TEQUILA AND MEZCAL 296 Main Street • Huntington Village (631) 427-7834 • www.quetzalcoatlmexrest.com FACEBOOK: FINE MEXICAN CUISINE AND BAR

58 • village connection • february 2012 Friday & Saturday: 11AM-11PM•Monday-Thursday: 11AM-10PM•Sunday: 11AM-9PM

JONATHAN’S RISTORANTE

15 Wall Street • Huntington 631-549-0055 www.jonathansristorante.com LUNCH, DINNER & BAR MENU AWARD WINNING WINE LIST • PRIVATE PARTIES village connection • february 2012 • 59

nightlife entertainment GRASSO’S 134 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor 631-367-6060, GrassosRestaurant.com

PORTO VIVO 7 Gerard Street, Huntington Village 631-385-8486, porto-vivo.com

Every Wednesday - Wayne Sabella, Madeline Kole, Kenny Hassler Dancing with dancers from the Ballroom of Huntington Every Thursday - Frank O’Brien & Tim Givens Friday 2/3 - Rose Gunther Trio Friday 2/10 - Bill McCrossen Trio Friday 2/17 - Marcus McLaurine Trio Friday 2/24 - Dave Glasser Trio Every Saturday - Ernie Byrd, Dave LaLama & Noriko Ueda Every Sunday - Joe Carter & Wayne Sabella

Wednesday 2/1 - Walter Finley, 7:30pm Thursday 2/2 - Inner Urge, contemporary jazz/singer, 8pm Friday 2/3 - Turnstyles, 8pm Saturday 2/4 - “Gold Magnolias” Southern Soul, 8:15pm Monday 2/6 - Sal, from Ready in 10, 7pm Tuesday 2/7 - Dueling Pianos Live, 6:30pm Wednesday 2/8 - Marc and Sal from Ready in 10, 7pm Thursday 2/9 - Savin Faith, 8pm Friday 2/10 - Turnstyles, 8pm Saturday 2/11 - Points East, 8pm Monday 2/13 - Larry on Keyboards, 6:30pm Tuesday 2/14 - Inner Urge, contemporary jazz, 6pm Wednesday 2/15 - The Last Chord, Jazz, 7pm Thursday 2/16 - Walter Finley, 8pm Friday 2/17 - Acoustifunk, 8:30pm Saturday 2/18 - Gold Magnolias, Southern Soul, 8:15pm Monday 2/20 - Sal, from Ready in 10, 7pm Tuesday 2/21 - James Gedion, 7pm Wednesday 2/22 - The Last Chord, 7pm Thursday 2/23 - Savin Faith, 8pm Friday 2/24 - Points East, 8pm Saturday 2/25 - Inner Urge, contemporary jazz/singer, 8pm Monday 2/27 - Jaimy Lynn on electric violin, 6:30pm Tuesday 2/28 - Dueling Pianos, 6:30pm Wednesday 2/29 - Marc and Sal from Ready in 10, 7pm

HONU KITCHEN & COCKTAILS 363 New York Avenue, Huntington Village 631-421-6900, Honukitchen.com Thursdays - Huntington’s Best Ladies Night. Half price signature cocktails from 8-12 pm. DJ from 9 til closing.

Fridays - Corporate Happy Hour with $5 drinks and passed Hors D’oeuvres from 5-7 pm. Call ahead and register 8 or more people and the first round of drinks is on Honu. Live music.

ROOKIES SPORTS CLUB 70 Gerard Street, Huntington Village 631-923-0424, rookiesny.com Happy Hour Monday through Friday 3-7 pm. $2 off all adult beverages. $5 appetizers (at bar only) Every Thursday - Thirsty Thursday happy hour all night starting at 3 pm LEGACY 92 East Main Street, Huntington Village 631-425-7788, legacyhuntington.com Happy Hour Monday through Friday 4-7 pm SAMURAI 46a Gerard Street, Huntington Village 631-271-2588, samuraihibachi.com Sake Bomb Fridays - $10 for combination of a large Sapporo and a large Hot Sake QUETZALCOATL 296 Main Street, Huntington Village 631-427-7834, quetzalcoatlmexrest.com Live music Wednesday, Friday & Saturday.

Happy Hour 4-7 pm with tequila and mezcal specials

60 • village connection • february 2012

Sal from R eady in 10

2012

GET CONNECTED

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SHOP LOCAL & GET CONNECTED Present this card to show that you are a member of the Village Connection “Get Connected” Network.

We encourage you to support local business and help the economy right here in Huntington while receiving discounts and special daily deals to thank you for your loyalty and commitment to shopping locally.

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Jazz Brunch Sunday Open Mon. thru Sat. for Lunch & Dinner • Sunday for Brunch & Dinner

134 Main Street • Cold Spring Harbor 631-367-6060 • GrassosRestaurant.com

A MANHATTAN STYLE DINING EXPERIENCE IN HUNTINGTON Dim Sum Weekends Fri-Sat 11-3 pm Sunday 12-3 pm

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92 E. Main Street, Huntington • 631-425-7788 • www.LegacyHuntington.com village connection • february 2012 • 61

HUNTINGTON’S

Music Man R

ich Rivkin has a passion for live music and for playing percussion.

It’s the kind of passion that occasionally shoots bolts of electricity up and down his spine.

It drove his desire to share these peak experiences with others who might be drawn to this level of live music appreciation.

Rivkin enjoys creating new entertainment concepts, scouting talent, and producing events where profit has not been the motivation, but rather the fun of gathering a room full – or park full – of happily dancing people.

These are his kindred spirits.

Since 2000, it has been his mission, as a Town of Huntington resident, to bring to this area an expanding variety of live music related events that are by design, different from the existing fare.

So far his projects have focused on five categories of music: Jazz Fusion, Funk & Latin groove music, Worldbeat Percussion & Dance, Jam Bands, and select Classic Rock tribute acts.

Last April he discovered a local venue which has turned out to be one of his sources of inspiration. “The first time I walked into 841 East Lounge on Jericho Turnpike, I was struck by its unique charm and cool vibe,” Rivkin recalls. “I’ve since become friends with the owner, Jarid Futerman of Corinne’s Catering Concepts, the company that maintains the lounge as a special events venue. But for me it’s become more of a home away from home.”

“I’ve booked gigs and events at about fifty Long Island venues since 2000, but I am happy to have found my favorite one within a five minute drive from my house.”

So far, Rivkin has produced more than a dozen events at 841

62 • village connection • february 2012

East Lounge, including his event series, Live Art Fusion, which takes place every Wednesday night at 7:30 pm, with free admission.

“My 17 year old son had originally suggested the basic concept for Live Art Fusion, which is a blending of Live Painting Performance and Live Jazz Fusion, at which ten artists are simultaneously painting while inspired by the band, and by dynamic audience interaction,” he explained.

“Another recent project of mine is L.I. Groove Bastards, an eight piece band dedicated to performing familiar 70’s R&B/Funk classics that never fail to get audiences moving and singing along.”

Rivkin shoots video at all the events, which can be viewed on his youtube channel, “JazzfusionTV”. His website, Jazzfusion.tv also hosts thousands of hours of audio and video content.

During the upcoming spring and summer months Rivkin will be producing several events taking place at the Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, to benefit the Museum. This will include the Long Island Sound Festival (the successor to the Elwoodstock Music Festival previously held at Elwood Park), as well as other live music & dance performances, drum circles and outdoor Live Art Fusion shows featuring more than twenty-five artists plus Fusion Collective (fusioncollective.com), the band he founded in 2005, in which he plays conga drums and percussion.

“I feel that Huntington holds great untapped potential as Long Island’s central Mecca for live music and cultural events,” Rivkin said. “Rest assured that I’ll be having a blast as I do my part in realizing that potential for our town.”

Huntington area projects created by Rich Rivkin Long Island Sound Festival Founded and produced this annual summer event featuring a full day of jam bands and acoustic performers, overlooking the Long Island Sound. Takes place at Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport. LISoundFestival.com Live Art Fusion Created and produced this ongoing series of multi-media events featuring ten renowned artists simultaneously speedpainting on multiple canvases, while inspired by live jazz fusion and audience interaction. LiveArtFusion.com Comedy Jam Created and Co-produced two Comedy Jam events to date, taking place at 841 East Lounge in Huntington. Events featured standup performances by seven regional comedians, followed by live jazz funk with Fusion Collective.

Djembe Movement Founded and organized this drumming & dance organization, whose mission is to create and publicize an ongoing series of drum circles, benefit events, West African drumming classes, and performances for the community of Long Island percussionists & dancers. DjembeMovement.com Belly Dancing performances Produce and promote performances by Damascus Steel, a troupe of NYC musicians and belly dancers.

Cream Tribute performances Produce and promote performances by EB-3, a Cream tribute band Fusion Collective Founded, organize, promote and play percussion with this jazz funk fusion sextet, which currently performs at 841 East Lounge and Nags Head Ale House in Huntington.

Fusion Collective has also played at other Huntington venues including Strawberry’s, Chesterfields, Solo, Big Kahuna, etc.

FusionCollective.com Bootlegs.tv The internet’s largest collection of free access, downloadable vintage Jazz Fusion audio recordings, featuring more than 1200 concerts, circa 1970’s – 80’s. Bootlegs.tv Elwoodstock Music Festival, Elwood Founded and produced this free event which took place each summer from 2001 to 2010, in the meadow at Elwood Park, featuring some of the region's hottest jam bands and acoustic performers. As of summer 2011 the Elwoodstock Festival has evolved into the Long Island Sound Festival.

Elwoodstock.com

village connection • february 2012 • 63

out and about • paul shapiro

Share With Someone Special On Valentine's Day

S

haring always means caring, especially on February 14 each year. That fateful day known as Valentine's Day is a time to get close with that special someone and show them just how much they mean to you. To keep with that theme, Vitae Restaurant and Wine Bar is offering -- as part of its prix fixe Valentine's Day menu -- shared appetizers, main courses and desserts for two.

"The chef tried to make it a little more romantic by creating a special Valentine's Day menu for couples which allows for sharing for two," said Vitae's General Manager John Estevez. "To go with the theme of the day, there's a surf and turf appetizer for two, we

64 • village connection • february 2012

have a Caesar salad for two, heart-shaped lobster ravioli for two and a flourless chocolate cake for two, adding a romantic touch to dessert. We've geared this menu to create a unique setting for couples."

Along with the $55 three-course prix fix menu and the restaurant's already warm, sensual and romantic atmosphere, a complimentary long-stemmed rose will be given to each couple. And love songs, performed by keyboard player, Bobby V, will fill the room on Valentine's Day. "All of these things, from the complimentary rose for the ladies to the pianist singing love songs and the plates for two, make it more romantic," Estevez said. "When you're putting a big plate on the table that two people can share together, instead of having individual plates, it's much more romantic. The restaurant itself is very beautiful inside, which is also conducive to romance."

Vitae not only provides elegant dining, but also has a menu with more than 100 wine selections from around the world. Estevez said the restaurant boasts a unique menu all year round, but that the Valentine's Day menu takes it to the next level. "Most places don't have plates for two, which we’re doing. That's definitely unique," he said. "Heart-shaped lobster ravioli is definitely unique too. You're not going to find that anywhere else in town."

Vitae's special prix fixe menu, created and prepared by Executive Chef Steven Del Lima, will also be available on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday leading up to Valentine's Day along with the restaurant's regular dinner menu. The prix fixe will be offered exclusively on Valentine’s Day without the regular Vitae dinner menu.

Estevez added, "We want this Valentine's Day to be cozy and romantic with excellent service and excellent food. Not obtrusive and not rushed. And, of course, a delicious dinner for you and that special someone."

Vitae Restaurant and Wine Bar 54 New Street, Huntington, NY 11743 (631) 385-1919 • www.vitaeli.com Paul Shapiro is an associate at Nightingale & Nightingale Public Relations. Before going into PR, he was a professional journalist working for companies including Major League Baseball and America Online. Paul lives in and frequents Huntington Village. He can be reached at paul@nightingalepr.com

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village connection • february 2012 • 65

at the cinema The CAC offers compelling American and international films, restored classics as well as entertaining popular films, adventurous and cutting edge films and a remarkable array of monthly film series, often coordinated with music, art exhibits and more. Educational programming includes workshops in screen-writing and filmmaking. Here is a sampling of events for February.

Check the website for a complete schedule, CinemaArtsCentre.org

LONG ISLAND BIENNIAL: Call for Entries Presented in partnership with the Heckscher Museum of Art Attention: Long Island Filmmakers! The Cinema Arts Centre presents the second Long Island Biennial, a juried exhibition for filmmakers who live in Nassau and Suffolk counties. The Cinema Arts Centre will present the jury’s selections at a special event in July. A downloadable application and more information can be found at www.

CinemaArtsCentre.org TRIBUTE TO GARY COOPER DESIGN FOR LIVING, Thursday, February 2 at 7:30pm. Guest Speaker: LI’er Maria Cooper Janis, daughter of Gary Cooper Join Maria Cooper Janis for a tribute to her father, GARY COOPER, with screening, discussion, reception and book signing of her new book Gary Cooper: Enduring Style.

CINEMA MEETS CULTURE - AN ONGOING FILM SERIES OF OPERA, DANCE AND CONCERT PRESENTATION CARMEN, Sunday, February 5 at 1pm & Tuesday, February 7 at 7pm LONG ISLAND JOBS WITH JUSTICE PRESENTS Wednesday, February 8 at 6pm. BREAD AND ROSES, Film Followed by Panel, Discussion, and Reception Bread and Roses is a powerful drama, directed by Ken Loach, about the plight of seemingly invisible office cleaners in contemporary L.A. who often earn as little as $6 a day without benefits, copresented by Cinema Arts Centre and Long Island Jobs with Justice.

Out at the Movies Presented by L.I. Gay & Lesbian Film Festival ALL THE WAY THROUGH EVENING, Thursday, February 9 at 7:30pm. In Person: Pianist/Concert Producer Mimi Stern-Wolfe

66 • village connection • february 2012

Deeply affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic as it swept through New York in the early 1980s, Mimi Stern-Wolfe devotes her life to The Benson AIDS Series, an annual concert of works by composers who were lost to HIV/AIDS, which she performs on World AIDS Day. VALENTINE’S DAY AT THE CINEMA Tuesday, February 14 at 7:30pm. Screening followed by reception in the Sky Room with chocolates, champagne, wine, cider, and flowers to take home.

CHOCOLAT - Based on the novel by Joanne Harris; Starring Juliette Binoche, Johnny Depp, Alfred Molina, Judi Dench; Nominated for Five Academy Awards, including Best Picture AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH Begins Friday, February 17 (Call 631-423-FILM for showtimes or go to www.CinemaArtsCentre.org ) ROCK LEGENDS LIVE Rare concert clips and footage from Shelley Archives . Tuesday, February 21 at 7:30 pm BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS - RARE PERFORMANCES (1970’S – 1981). Speaker: Freeport Music Archivist Bill Shelley Bill Shelley will present clips from rare concert footage from Germany, Jamaica, Boston, Los Angeles, and Marley’s famed London concerts, along with performances from studio rehearsals and television footage. Some of the songs included are “Jammin,’” “I Shot the Sheriff,” “No Woman, No Cry,” “Could You Be Loved,” “Redemption Song,” "Get Up, Stand Up” and more!

SUNDAY SCHMOOZE Sunday, February 19 • Bagel Brunch at 10am • Film at 11am - NETWORK SCIENCE ON SCREEN Classic and cult films with lively introductions by notable figures from the world of science.

Wednesday, February 29 at 7:00pm. John Cusack in 2012. Introduction by Astrophysicist Kevin Manning.

long island comedy tweets • paul anthony

@LIComedyFest Bruno Mars: “I’d catch a grenade for ya! Throw my hand on a blade for ya! I’d jump in front of a train for ya!” Hey Bruno, dial it down a notch. You’re making the rest of us look bad.

When I read about those students cheating on the SAT I said to myself that is just duplicitous, egregious and quixotic! You know I’m right.

Kids of today speaking to their children: “When I was your age we didn’t have microchips implanted in our brains! We learned things the old fashioned way… we googled them!”

Comedians are perceived as cynical, negative people.

Personally, I consider myself a very positive person. Of course, I can’t speak for any of those other $%#@&* comedians!

I just read an article, The Five Female Habits Men Don’t Understand. How they narrowed it down to just five is beyond me.

Don Rickels was recently quoted that he is excited that the “younger” people are now coming to his shows. Don Rickels is 112. Who isn’t younger going to his shows?

My wife is obsessed with watching the Food Network.

WATCHING! Not ONE gourmet meal yet!

I’m not trying to be condescending… showing or displaying a patronizingly superior attitude towards others.

Because that’s just not the type of person I am.

No matter how much Chinese takeout you order they tell you 15 minutes. “Yes, I’d like to order everything on this menu”. 15 minute! “I’ll just have a pint of white rice please.” 15 minute!

They’re advertising teeth in an hour! All of your teeth replaced in just one hour? We need to work on our time management skills people!

At my gym while you work out they have TV sets all over the place… showing infomercials of other people working out.

Paul Anthony is a Long Island comedian and producer of comedy showcases all across Long Island. He is the official host of both the annual summer Long Island Comedy Festival and the new Paramount Comedy Series. His mission is to promote the art of stand-up comedy. His official website is www.LIComedy.com

village connection • february 2012 • 67

astrology • maryann dellinger

February 2012 Venus is the goddess of love and beauty. She helps us to understand relationships, harmony and cooperation in order to achieve unity. She also rules the arts, love and beauty.

The beginning of this month, Venus will be transiting through the end of the sign Pisces, which is Neptune’s home. This is a love that sacrifices

sometimes through suffering. After transiting Pisces, Venus then goes into Aries where she must put herself into another person’s shoes in order to understand relationships. Here she can be very restless and impulsive and can tire easily with stable situations. Two entirely different energies will be experienced this month.

See into your past, present and future. Learn how to channel your negative energy onto a positive productive path. Astrological, Metaphysical & Psychic Insight with MaryAnn. MaryAnn can be reached at 631-875-7235 or by email at celestialrealm@juno.com

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village connection • february 2012 • 69

wine

Tips For Taking Care of Your Wine Collection Your wine collection is growing and probably so is its value. Based on the results of a recent wine auction, the price of collectible wines is breaking records. A 12-bottle set of 1988 DRC Romanee-Conti recently went for $117,000. But not everyone can afford a six-figure case of wine.

Many wine connoisseurs own bottles that are far less expensive, but the way you should care for and protect your wine remains the same. Your wine needs to be protected not only to retain your investment value but also to ensure quality.

Keep an eye on your climate control A temperature of 55 degrees with relative humidity between 60 to 65 percent is ideal for long-term wine storage. The cool temperature slows the aging process, while the humidity prevents moisture inside the wine bottle from moving into the cork and eventually evaporating into the air.

Limit your collection's exposure to light A dark room is best for storing wine. Fluorescent light can be harmful.

Keep wines in a stable environment Vibration is harmful to wine, as it disturbs the sediment. Keep the bottles in a horizontal position.

Back up your power supply Your wine collection could be at risk during a sustained power outage. A permanent backup generator will help protect your investment.

Consider renting a storage space If you lack adequate space to store your collection, professional wine storage facilities are available in most major cities.

Insure your collection separately if it is valuable - As wine collections increase in value, collectors should consider insuring their collection.

Wine collections are a passionate investment and are important to protect. Unlike other collections, you get to enjoy consuming the contents and add to the collection more often.

“Very Good...filet mignon was super tender...with a splendid bearnaise... succulent pork porterhouse...” JOANNE STARKEY

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beer

This Valentine’s Day Rethink Chocolate The recipe for Rogue Chocolate Stout was created several years ago for export to Japan.

Chocolate Stout was released for Valentine’s Day in 2001 in a twenty-two ounce bottle for the US market. The label features a Roguester (Sebbie Buhler) on the label.

Style: American Stout Food Pairing: Beef, Desserts Tasting Notes: Ebony in color with a rich creamy head. The mellow flavor of oats, chocolate malts and real chocolate are balanced perfectly with the right amount of hops for a bitter-sweet finish.

Email Shorelinebev@aol.com to reserve the Rogue Chocolate Stout Gift Box for Valentine’s Day,

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shorelinebeverage.com • 645 New York Ave. • Huntington 72 • village connection • february 2012

Don’t Wait For Restaurant Week! $25 Prix Fixe Every Day of Every Week!

Some of our most popular dishes & specials are on the Prix Fixe Menu including:

Shrimp & Crab Bisque Orange-Sesame Calamari Greek Salad Pistachio-Crusted Tuna Korean Marinated Bistro Filet 34 New Street Huntington Village 631-427-3434 www.34newsteet.com

View our full complete Prix Fixe Menu at www.34NewStreet.com village connection • february 2012 • 73