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February 2020 • Volume 4 • Issue 1 www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com

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Contents

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P. 19

P. 9

P. 12

IN THIS ISSUE

Nina’s Notes 4

Around the Bay 5

Happy Happenings 6-7

Local Sports News 8 Sports Headlines Update

Music Notes 9 The Road from Long Island to Memphis!

Musings of a Grandfather 10 Heading Downhill In A Hurry

Sunnyside Up 14 I Can See Clearly Now

Critter Corner 15 Fluffy

Dragonfly Dreams 16 Heart To Heart

Financial Information for the 21st Century 18 Eleven Years of Economic Growth! Are Happy Days Here Again?

Small Business: It’s The Little Things 19 Perspective Can Make You Money!

Health & Wellness 20-23 Love And Serving Start the New Year Off Right!

Creating A Magical Life 24 The Magic of Surrender – Let It Go!

The Geek and You 26 Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker

Business Directory 27-28

Dining Guide 28

Puzzles 29-30

FEATURE ARTICLE

Valentine’s Day, Then And Now 12-13

February 2020 • Volume 4 • Issue 1

P. 22

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NOTES FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK


Since this is the first new issue of the New Year, let’s play catch-up: It’s now winter and the New Year has begun! That’s all I got.

Seriously, we had December and January to contend with. December, crazy with holiday preparations, came and went in the blink of an eye. And now, it’s 2020. We have started a new decade. This new year comes with 366 (Leap Year) new chances for joy, love, hope, prosperity, peace, redemption…whatever it is that you need and wish for. Take each day and follow your head and your heart to where you need to go.

February Holidays:February 2nd is Groundhog Day. I am not a fan of rodents, even cute groundhogs,

but if Punxsutawney Phil predicts an early spring, I will do a dance of joy in his honor. Who is Punxsutawney Phil you ask? Please watch “Groundhog Day”, a very funny movie with Bill Murray and Andie McDowell to find out. If you don’t have streaming services, it usually comes on regular cable a few times. It’s worth watching…again and again and again. (You’ll get the reason for that repetition after you watch the movie.)

February 14th is Valentine’s Day. Ladies and gentlemen the following is something that will help you out: Be on high alert from February 1st to the 14th for hints from your significant other for Valentine’s Day gifts. If you pay close attention, they are there. They would be repeated many times. If a massage at a spa, or a specific piece of jewelry was mentioned, that was a hint. If she/he says, “Daisies are my favorite flower”, that was a hint. If tickets to a sports event or a gym membership was mentioned, that was a hint. Pay attention, boys and girls. It’s all there.

February 17th is Presidents Day. I personally hate to share my birthday celebration with anybody, and poor dead presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln had absolutely no say with the fact that we moved their combined birthday’s celebration to a day of convenience. (Monday to give us a long weekend) Oh well. As my father would have said, “It is what it is.”

Finally, please remember your neighbors when the snow hits. Some of them might be sick or elderly or otherwise incapable of shoveling. Lend a hand.

“In the coldest of February, as in every other month in every other year, the best thing to hold on to in this world is each other.” ~Linda Ellerbee

– Nina Algeri, Editor-In-Chief

Editor-In-Chief: Nina Algeri

Production: Jarrod Michael Studios

Web Design: Jarrod Michael Studios

Photo/Journalist: Nicole Sgroi

Columnists: April Lindevald, Lin Fong-O’Neill, Christopher

Fileti, Suzanne Foschino, April Lindevald, Antoinette Maiorini, Christopher Mascaro, Larry

McCoy, Jacqueline Poulos, DVM, Ed Powers, Susan Schmidt, Skyler Thayer

Web Columnists: Maureen Bjerke, Antoinette Maiorini, Meagan J.

Meehan, Ed Powers, Jerry Giammateo

Guest Contributors: Nina Algeri, Anthony Cerabino, Tom Lamia (blog),

John T. McLoughlin, DDS

PLEASE NOTE THAT OCCASIONALLY SOME OF OUR REGULAR COLUMNISTS WILL APPEAR ON OUR WEBSITE (www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com)

This month, please look for Moonstruck, Pines & Grove and Those Oldies But Goodies as well as

Rollercoasting in our blog feature.

All rights reserved: No part of this publication may be reproduced without express consent of Great South

Bay Magazine, Inc. and its representatives.

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recipes, essays, poems and suggestions!

For information regarding advertising, please contact Nina Algeri at:

[email protected].

February 2020 • Volume 4 • Issue 1

Happy New Year! A New Decade, A Fresh Start

AROUND THE BAY

BABYLON

2/12 at 7:30pm: Chinese Auction to benefit the Arthritis Foundation at the American Legion, 22 Grove Place, Babylon. No tickets at the door. Purchase event tickets by February 12th at www:AuctionForArthritis20.eventbrite.com. Email ([email protected]) for more information.

Babylon Public Library: 24 South Carll Ave., Babylon: 631.669.1624

2/3 from 7-8pm: West African Dance & Drum: Awaken your body’s inner rhythm. Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear. Registration required: FREE

2/4 from 6:30-8pm: Valentine Necklace & Earring Ensemble: Design this lovely Valentine necklace and earring ensemble to wear on that special day: A non-refundable fee of $5 is due at registration, which is required.

2/6 at 1:30pm: Adult Monthly Movie: JUDY starring Renee Zellweger; 2 hours PG-13; Free and no registration required

BAY SHORE

2/2 from 9am-noon: Bay Shore Rotary Club will hold a Food Drive at Stop & Shop, Montauk Highway, Bay Shore: INTERACT students from Bay Shore High School will be asking for donations of food items that will be donated to St Patrick Church

Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library: One South Country Rd Brightwaters, 631.665.4350 www.bsbwlibrary.org

Adult Programs:

2/6 through 4/9: Thursdays from 10am-1pm. AARP volunteers will be at the library to help with your 2019 Income Tax forms. Sessions are set by appointment only. Please bring in copies of your 2019 Income Tax returns and all necessary receipts, pay stubs, etc. with you.

February 8th at 2:00pm: Toby Tobia in Concert: Journey from Johannesburg –

South African-born singer/songwriter Toby Tobias shares his journey through three continents as he moved from South Africa to Jerusalem to New York.

Children’s Programs:

2/10 at 9:30am: Registration begins in person and on-line for Mid-February and March programs. You must have a valid, up-to-date Bay Shore-Brightwaters Library card in order to register.

DEER PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY

44 Lake Ave., Deer Park, 11729 631.586.3000

2/9 from 1-2pm: New Orleans Jazz Concert: The Sunnyland Jazz Band presents the history and music of Jazz in New Orleans.

2/19 from 7-8:30pm: Generation Zapped: Film and Discussion: This film discusses the science and raises awareness of the dangers of wireless technology.

2/22 from 1-2:30pm: Pinstripes and Tales: Curious Stories the Yankees Told Me: Bill Schulman, writer for the Yankees, will share his experiences with the Yankees. Each attendee will receive a complimentary copy of his book. Registration required.

EAST ISLIP

2/20 at 6:30pm: Dahlia 101 lesson sponsored by the Long Island Dahlia Society including “How to make dahlia cuttings” at the East Islip Public Library, 381 Main Street.www.longislanddahlia.org or call 516.578.7699

FIRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE: FIIS Information @nps.gov or 631.281.3010 weekends and 631.687.4780

Wilderness Visitor Center: Open weekends 9am-4pm: Free Events: https://www.nps.gov/fiis/planyourvisit/calendar.htm: 631.281.3010: Take William Floyd Parkway (Rte. 46) to Smith Point County Park parking lot which is just east of the visitor’s center which will be a small round building to your right as you head south.

Marine Stranding Rescue and Response-Sea Turtles, Seals and Dolphins: start date 2/2 from 1-2pm. Learn how you can help these sea creatures. Registration required

The Great Backyard Bird Count: 2/16 9am-10:30pm: Citizen Science Bird Count Birdwatching walk: Registration not required

PATCHOGUE

Patchogue-Medford Library at 54-60 E. Main St., Patchogue: 631.654.4700 x/210 or 2222

2/9 from 2-3pm: World Beat Groove Drum and Dance Circle: All ages welcome to participate in this interactive drum, dance and sing along with keyboards, sax, flute and hand drums. No registration required.

2/19 from 2-4pm: Family Movie Night featuring “Akeelah and the Bee”. In celebration of Black History Month, enjoy some snacks and participate in fun literacy activities.

SAYVILLE

2/1-3/8: Women Sharing Art, Inc. presents “I Am! ... East”, an eclectic collection of self-portraits by their members at the BAFFA Art Gallery, 47 Gillette Avenue in celebration of the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. For days, hours and more information: www.womensharingart.org, www.islipartmuseum.org

WEST SAYVILLE

Long Island Maritime Museum at 88 West Avenue, W. Sayville, NY: 631.854.4974: All events are from 12:30-2:30pm: Coffee & pastries provided

2/9: Fire Island Saga, book signing to follow: Lecturer Warren C. McDowell

2/16: Frank M. Weeks Yacht Yard: Boat Building, Tradition & Maritime History: Lecture Kevin Weeks

2/23: TBA

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HAPPY HAPPENINGSHAPPY HAPPENINGS

One of the many dance schools participating in

Miracle on Main Street on November 30, 2019.

Photo by SMB Photography.

The Oakdale Historical Society hosted their annual Civil War

Christmas at historical St. John’s Church in Oakdale.

St. Nicholas (Steve Birkland) and Rob Pellegrino representing

the 67th NY Infantry, Co K.-photo provided by Steve Birkland

of SMB Photography.

Mrs. Ferrante’s students at Mary G. Clarkson School

learned about coding. They programmed a Beebot to

follow commands.

Congratulations to Bay Shore Boys Track runners Nolan Kata, Aiden

Rooney, Darin Cofield and Jake Rabin! The relay team set a meet record

for the 4x800 relay at the Hall of Fame Meet with a time of 8:11.

Students in the Life Skills class at Bay Shore Middle School worked hard to put together boxes of food for families in need at the holidays.

Bay Shore High School senior Nate Polk completed his Eagle Scout project at the high school. The Life Scout, who is a candidate for Eagle Scout, raised awareness about suicide prevention by hosting the Nicholas A. Smith Memorial Walk. Through his efforts, he raised more than $2,800 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The Bay Shore High School Robotics team amazed the crowd at

the Islip Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Parade. The team had

a festive float and built a robot to bring with them along the

parade route.

Ms. DeLeon’s kindergarten students at Mary G. Clarkson School reinforced their social emotional learning with an art project. They created a mural after Sanford Harmony mascot “Z” helped them learn about emotions.

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Sports Headlines Updateby Chris Mascaro

The student-athletes from the Great South Bay area wow us on the local fields, courts, rinks

and pitches. But when they grow into full-fledged adults, a select few get to travel the country, showcasing their craft to the masses.

Take former Sayville quarterback Jack Coan. The Wisconsin junior led the eighth-ranked Badgers to the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California, and though Wisconsin lost to No. 6 Oregon, 28-27, Long Island’s all-time passing leader completed 23-of-35 attempts for 186 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Jeremy Ruckert of Lindenhurst also played college football on a grand stage during bowl season. The Ohio State junior tight end took the field in Arizona on Dec. 28 for the Fiesta Bowl, where the second-ranked Buckeyes dropped a nail-biter to No. 3 Clemson, 29-23. Ruckert caught one pass for six yards to end the season with 14 catches for 142 yards and four touchdowns.

Coan’s former team, the Golden Flashes of Sayville, advanced to the Long Island Class III title game in late November before losing to Plainedge, 56-20.

But we did have a team from the GSB area come home with a football title –Lindenhurst– which beat Garden City, 14-13, to capture the Class II crown. The Bulldogs capped off an 11-0 season in heart-pumping fashion, as Jaden Barber ran for third- and fourth-quarter touchdowns to erase a 13-0 deficit. Lindenhurst was honored with the Rutgers Trophy (given to Suffolk’s

best football team) for the second time in the last three seasons at the Coaches Association banquet in early December.

One of the members of the Bulldogs, Sunkomi Agunloye, will follow in the footsteps of players like Coan and Ruckert, as the defensive end singed a National Letter of Intent with Virginia last month on early-signing day. The 6-6, 240-pound Agunloye joins a Cavaliers team that’s coming off its first New Year’s Six bowl appearance, losing to ninth-ranked Florida in the Orange Bowl, 36-28, on Dec. 30.

Here are some other headlines from the last two months, since we last spoke:

• West Islip senior Jaden Hampel was named the 2019 Suffolk girls soccer Player of the Year last month after leading the Lions to the Long Island Class AA championship game. Hampel will play for the Stony Brook women’s lacrosse team next year.

• Bay Shore’s 4x800-meter relay team of Perry Balsamo, Darin Cofield, Jake Rabin and Nolan Kata won their event Jan. 4 at the Hispanic Games at The Armory in Manhattan. Their time of 8:10.46 was the third-fastest high school time in the nation in the indoor season, according to milesplit.com. But then a week later at the same track the boys ran the event in 8:00.94, finishing second in the Millrose Games Trials and qualifying for the Feb. 8 event. A team from New Jersey finished in 7:55.3, and those two times are the fastest in the country this season.

• The girls basketball team at St. John the Baptist (West Islip) improved to 10-1 with a 69-47 shellacking of rival St. Anthony’s on Jan. 7. Katie Maguire scored 23 points for the Cougars, who’ve already beaten perennial girls basketball powers Freeport, North Babylon, Ward Melville and Commack this season.

• West Islip alum Nick Tropeano signed a minor-league deal with the Yankees in early January. He’ll be at spring training in Tampa later this month, trying to make the big-league club after struggling the last two seasons following 2016 Tommy John surgery. The 29-year-old is 12-14 with a 4.51 ERA in 42 major-league appearances for the Astros and Angels.

• Nicholas Baldino (East Islip), Joseph Montiglio (West Islip), Michael Scoleri (Sayville) and William Singleton (Babylon) were named to the National Football Foundation Golden Eleven Jan. 10 at the Hyatt Regency in Hauppauge. The organization honors the top scholar-athletes in Suffolk County football. ▪

Twitter: @CCMascaro

LOCAL SPORTS NEWS

On Sunday, Jan 12, approximately 300 Long Island blues lovers packed

the Warehouse in Amityville to support Long Island’s blues community, listen to some amazing homegrown blues bands, while raising money to help send some of our finest local musicians down to Memphis, TN to compete in the “36th Annual International Blues Challenge” (IBC). Hosted by the Long Island Blues Society, Sunday’s performers were Blue Roots, the Affordables, the Kerry Kearney Band, the legendary Stanton Anderson Band and the toast of the afternoon, the Pamela Betti Band.

Here on Long Island, we have a thriving blues community held together by the glue of the Long Island Blues Society (LIBS). Like all musical genres, the blues has seen their highs and lows over the years. But, I’m happy to report that it’s on the rise again. With growing membership numbers and the extremely hard work and dedication of the all-volunteer board, I haven’t been this excited by Long Island Blues in years. (Go to www.libsny.com to find out more and become a member!)

The LIBS has been sending local bands to compete in Memphis since 1996 and this year, the incomparable Pamela Betti Band from Commack will enjoy the honor of competing in the “band” competition while Felix Slim will represent LI in the “solo/duo” category. Betti has performed at the IBC once before and she’s ready to hit the IBC stage again with that powerfully intimidating voice, yet extremely likable personality that she’s become known for. I remember years ago, our mutual friend, blues legend Sam “Bluzman”

Taylor say that Pam’s voice was so powerful that “it sounds like she’s got a microphone in her bosom”. And she is as funny as she is talented. I’m sure the Pamela Betti Band will do Long Island proud.

Representing in the “Best Self-Produced CD” competition is Brooklyn’s own, Mark Newman whose album, “Empirical Truth” is bound to make some waves. Armed with a great band featuring Sly Geralds on bass, John Haseth on guitar, Tim Dorsey on keys and Michael Costarella on Drums, Felix Slim, the solo winner, is a more traditional blues artist, playing guitar, harmonica and kazoo, telling well-crafted stories through song, in more of a throwback to the juke joint days. Mark Newman has toured the world and shared a stage with some notable musicians like Sting and Elvis Costello. You might want to pick up a copy of his CD “Empirical Truth”, so head to the LIBS website and follow the links.

The IBC is the world’s largest, annual gathering of blues musicians and fans, which takes place during the last week of January for the past 35 years. Thousands of Blues lovers from around the world pour into Memphis, TN., for this weeklong competition...it’s like a blues seminar! The IBC is hosted by the Memphis based Blues Foundation, whose mission statement is, “to preserve blues heritage, celebrate blues recording and performance, expand worldwide awareness of the blues, and ensure the future of this uniquely American art form”, honoring that mission recently by erecting the official, long awaited, Blues Hall of Fame. The IBC is something the

foundation is particularly proud of as it’s unlike anything I’ve seen in other musical genres. They celebrate the “up & comers” and give them the chance to take a shot at the next step in their blues lives. I’ve been to the IBC 6 times (3 times while my husband performed, and 3 times when my kids performed in the “Youth Showcase”) and it’s truly a blues wonderland, right down to the world-famous BBQ joints. Beale Street is closed off each night when the music starts, and musicians and fans stream through the dozens of venues, to see as many bands as they’re able. Judged by industry experts, winners and losers can sometimes be separated by just a half a point. At the end of the week, after over 250 blues bands and solo/duo acts from around the world have shown what they’ve got, a winner is chosen from this lot of the best in “undiscovered” blues. But the IBC isn’t just about winning...it’s about being seen...networking and making the best of the experience.

Good luck, all! I know you’re going to do amazing things in Memphis! ▪

The Road from Long Island to Memphis!by Suzanne Foschino

MUSIC NOTES


Heading Downhill In A Hurryby Larry McCoy

MUSINGS OF A GRANDFATHER

One day nearly 50 winters ago I left home wearing thin slacks, a beret, a car coat

and cordovan wingtip shoes with heel plates—perfect attire for sledding. In the Alps.

A German friend in Munich, where I was living, had invited me to go to Westendorf, Austria, not far from the much glitzier Kitzbühel. Toni said we would rent sleds, take a lift to the top and ride down into a picturesque village. After recounting this idyllic description to my nine-year-old daughter Julie, she asked to go along.

When Toni talked about sleds, I assumed he meant the kind I had as a kid. Steel runners, wooden slats and a yoke for steering. Nope. At a rental shop, Toni pointed to a stack of kindling and said, “There’re the sleds. Take your choice.”

Take my choice? These so-called sleds were warped sticks with strips of colored doilies interlaced across the top. I mumbled something about being surprised. Toni showed me how you sat on the doilies, grabbed the rope at the front and leaned back with your legs spread-eagled. Sure you do.

After the ride up, Julie got on the front of my sled and off we went… for about 50 yards before we tipped over, on a straightaway. We got up laughing. It would take Daddy a while to get the hang of it.

Another 50 yards down the mountain we saw our first skiers, zipping by on a small ridge to our left until the ridge suddenly disappeared and the ski trail and the sled run intersected. It was the only intersection of the day, and I

didn’t let it go to waste. I ran over the back of the skis of a young girl who had stopped, safely out of the way she thought. She snapped at me in German. I asked Julie for a translation. “I think she said you’re nuts.”

Toni, who had been sailing down in 200-yard bursts and then looking back to see how we were doing, suggested that Julie ride with him. “Yes!” was her answer.

I did okay by myself for a bit, whizzing around one turn after another – scared to death but whizzing. I remember feeling proud after I stayed on the sled during a sharp curve in front of a Gasthaus where people were sunning themselves and eating lunch. Obviously not the place to lose control and wind up as a pile of doilies, sticks and heel plates.

Below the Gasthaus there was another bend, and when I entered it I saw an aging couple walking on the right side of the run, a wooden shed on the left and, standing by the shed, Toni and Julie. Much to my credit I didn’t hit the white-haired couple or Toni or Julie. I hit the shed. Feet first, right into the door which was shut. The couple laughed and the man said something to his wife. Toni translated this time. “He says that door is always closed.”

After a few more curves, Toni went off the track, hitting wooden posts put there to protect the incompetent from a 60-foot drop over the side. Whatever it was that Toni did wrong, I duplicated. He and Julie were still lying in the snow when I slammed into their sled, then into Toni and then into one of the posts.

The crash knocked the wind out of

me. Not the best condition for a father if he is to notice the disappearance of his daughter. Without a word, Julie had left. She had had enough and would walk the rest of the way.

Toni and I looked at each other and started walking too. Back on level ground, there was a commotion behind us, someone shouting. I thought, “What the hell have I done now?” I stepped off the trail and turned around. A man on a sled was yelling for us to get out of the way. It was a mailman, in uniform with a sack over his shoulder, zooming down the mountain after delivering letters up above.

Julie never got on a sled again in Europe or in the States. She left it up to me to introduce her children, Nicholas and Rachel, to sledding. Learning for once from past mistakes, I made sure they were properly dressed (that means warm pants and no cordovan wingtips with heel plates) and rode on real American sleds, the kind you can steer to avoid hitting both people and sheds. ▪


A brief history of St. Valentine:

St. Valentine’s Day has a cloudy history. If you look at it’s history, you will find the Catholic Church recognizes three different saints with that name. Each Saint Valentine was a martyr. So, which one are we honoring?

One legend says he was a priest during the third century in Rome. Emperor Claudius II had decided that single men made better soldiers so he outlawed marriage. This St. Valentine decided that was just a tad unfair, so he kept marrying young lovers in secret. He got found out and was put to death.

Valentine of Terni, Saint number two, was a bishop who was beheaded by the very same Claudius II.

The last St. Valentine may have been killed for helping Christians escape a Roman prison where they were tortured. According to this legend, when Valentine was in prison, he fell in love with a young visitor. He wrote her letters signed “From Your Valentine”.

Each Valentine was heroic and romantic. So which St. Valentine is it? Each did what he did for love. I say we celebrate all three.

How Valentine’s Day got started: Poet Geoffrey Chaucer recorded the February 14th celebration of St. Valentine as a day of “romantic celebration” in one of his poems. Written Valentine’s began in the Middle Ages. A poem written by the Duke of Orleans to his wife while in the Tower of London is one of the oldest known Valentines.

Fast Forward to the Future: How do we go from martyrdom to today’s

version of Valentine’s Day? I have no idea! Boxers with? I’m not seeing a connection!

Seriously, Valentine’s Day is big business in this country. Flowers, chocolates, jewelry, dinner out, etc. She may say, “Oh honey, you don’t have to get me anything for Valentine’s Day”, but don’t believe it. Even if you’re married for 50 years, you know she is still expecting something. And don’t forget the card…I’m thinking if you want to “canoodle” (it means snuggle young ‘uns), make it a romantic one.

For the guys, it seems they tend to get left out most of the time. The woman gets a gift and the man has the pleasure of giving it to her. Does that seem fair in this day and age? Women want to be equal so get him something as well,

ladies. Get what? I have no idea. Guys are really hard to shop for. Good luck.

Is Valentine’s Day mostly hype? Yes and no. You shouldn’t feel forced to get roses, but it is nice to remind each other that love is still there. That’s what this holiday should be about: “I love you. You are important to me.” It doesn’t have to be expensive. If you can’t afford roses, try daisies. A romantic dinner at home will do, or go to a fast food place, bring it home and hold each other and just say the magic words: “I love you and I always will”. That should guarantee a nice Valentine’s Day.

Happy Valentine’s Day dear readers.▪

Valentine’s Day, Then And Nowby Nina Algeri

FEATURE ARTICLE

SVETLANA WILKEYSONLicensed Real Estate Salesperson

Direct: 631.218.3763Cell: [email protected]

“Ready to Buy or Sell”

150 Main StreetSayville, NY 11782631.589.8500

Fluffyby Jacqueline Poulos, DVM

CRITTER CORNER

I Can See Clearly Nowby Susan Schmid

SUNNYSIDE UP

Shortly before the winter holidays, I had an eye doctor appointment. I signed in at

the reception desk, and sat down in the waiting alcove. A young man, perhaps in his early thirties, sat down soon after my arrival and was visibly upset. He had placed an old-fashioned camera on the floor in front of him, and then roughly grabbed his cellphone, punching in numbers. He proceeded to shout expletives at the person on the other end. He grew more agitated by the minute, and was so enraged I was actually a bit frightened. Here we were, in this little area off the reception area, with its busy phones and steady stream of people waiting to check in; nowhere to go. As of yet, no nurse had come out to call someone into the exam room in the short time I was there. Both plugged into earbuds, the other two waiting patients were oblivious to the drama that was unfolding. This guy was now threatening to “come down there and ‘take care of things’ if this wasn’t fixed. “NOW!“ He hung up and started muttering to himself; every other word was a curse. (this younger generation has not experienced the sense of satisfaction slamming a phone receiver down can bring…)

I had no idea what this guy’s problem was, nor did I care. As I was debating internally whether to make a run for it or just continue to ignore it, an elderly gentleman sat down.

Noticing the camera on the floor by the younger man’s feet, he asked him, “Say, how old is that camera?”

The younger guy replied with his own question, and a sneer,” How old are

YOU?!” Even having “ear-witnessed” the guy’s phone etiquette, I was a bit shocked at such blatant disrespect to someone a good 40+ years his senior, sitting mere feet from him, and someone whom he did not even know.

The oldster took it in stride, though. Chuckling, he replied, “I am 80.”

The younger man said, “Well, this camera is just about as old as you.”

The older man started to talk about his dad having had a similar camera, when he was growing up. He said his father even had a darkroom in the basement of their home.

Something about the older man’s genuine interest or the way he was admiring the camera had a noticeable effect on the younger man’s demeanor. He seemed to visibly relax and started talking about the process of taking photos with this vintage camera. He explained negatives and positives, not as pros and cons of this particular model, but as far as their necessity for the picture-making process. He reverently picked up the camera and explained the working parts to us. He was obviously knowledgeable and this camera meant a great deal to him. The older man asked him, “Do you always bring your camera with you?”

I thought to myself, “Oh, here we go. The spell is over. Back to him being nasty and obnoxious.”

Instead, the younger man said, “As a matter of fact, I do. This camera is expensive, and cannot be replaced. It is my livelihood. I guard it with my life.”

With that, a nurse came out and called out a name. It was “the camera

man,” who carefully picked up his prized possession and followed her to an exam room.

I said to the elderly gentleman. “Wow! Thank you! You have no idea how agitated that guy was before you sat down. You definitely had a soothing effect on him.”

He laughed and said, “Oh, I heard him, miss. Clear over there at the sign-in desk.” We both laughed at that.

He said his wife had been a nurse before she retired, and she would share stories of difficult patients, and the strategies she used to deal with them. “Besides,” he said, “My dad really did have a very similar camera. Never let us kids near it!”

I was soon called for my eye exam, the camera forgotten for the time being.

Later that evening, I thought about the whole scenario, what lesson I could take from it. Granted, I was uncomfortable with the man’s rudeness, but that was his problem, not mine. I still felt, given the situation, I was right to not “call him on” it. I was grateful the older man had appeared when he did, and found his own way to diffuse the situation. I like what he shared about his wife having to find creative ways to work with sick people who were uncomfortable, miserable, and just plain hurting. Perhaps this was the lesson: remember that everyone has stuff going on; no one is immune to a bad day, or a bad streak. And act accordingly. Kindness goes a long way; redirection is another option. And just maybe, being more mindful of this truth, will help me “see more clearly in the new year, appropriately named, “2020.” ▪

14 | www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com | 15

Welcome to Critter Corner, my first column with Great South Bay Magazine! My

name is Jacqueline Poulos and I am a veterinary internist. That means I am a veterinarian who is board certified in small animal internal medicine. After I graduated from veterinary school, I spent an extra four years training with some of the best veterinary specialists in the world learning to apply my medical knowledge and clinical expertise to the diagnosis, treatment and care of pets with complex illnesses. Every day I work hand in hand with clients and their general practitioner veterinarians to bring the best possible medical care to their beloved pets. I am excited to write this column and share my knowledge with you. Each column I plan to discuss a different disease that we see commonly on Long Island with the hopes of helping more people recognize symptoms and learn what is needed to help their veterinarian diagnose, treat and even prevent them. Let’s tackle our first case!

Fluffy is a six-year old west highland white terrier. The past two months he has had occasional episodes of vomiting and not wanting to eat. He usually bounces back from these episodes after a day or two. After his family hosts a New Year’s Party, Fluffy again is vomiting and uninterested in food. This time, however, it is lasting several days and Fluffy develops diarrhea and does not want to play with his toys. His family becomes concerned and takes him to his veterinarian. The veterinarian does a physical examination and notices that Fluffy is dehydrated and weak. She recommends taking a blood pressure

and performing routine blood work which the family agrees to. Fluffy’s blood pressure is low. His bloodwork shows that his blood sugar is low and he has abnormalities in his electrolytes. The veterinarian becomes concerned for a disease called Addison’s disease and recommends a specialized one-hour blood test called an ACTH Stimulation Test. While waiting for the results, she administers subcutaneous fluid therapy and sugar supplementation. This makes Fluffy feel better and improves his blood sugar and blood pressure. The results are returned and Fluffy is diagnosed with Addison’s disease! The veterinarian starts Fluffy on medications and he begins eating again. The medications help eliminate his vomiting episodes and with treatment and close veterinary monitoring Fluffy goes on to live a long and happy life!

What is Addison’s disease? Addison’s disease, also called hypoadrenocorticism, is autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands. The destruction leads to a deficiency of two important hormones called cortisol (a stress hormone) and aldosterone (a hormone which regulates electrolytes). It can be seen in any breed and any age.

Addison’s disease can look two different ways. The first is with waxing and waning clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, inappetence, and lethargy. These can be worsened by stressful events such as grooming, moving, or new people in the household. This is what was happening to Fluffy. The second is a rapid progression to shock and collapse and is called an Addisonian Crisis. This results in rapid dehydration, low blood pressure,

low blood sugar and electrolyte (sodium, potassium) abnormalities. If left untreated these alterations can lead to seizures and disrupt the heart rate and rhythm and are life threatening. Fortunately, with a good physical examination and bloodwork recommendations, Fluffy’s veterinarian was able to diagnose this disease before it turned into a crisis.

Once diagnosed, lifetime treatment is required. The most important aspect of treatment for Addison’s disease is replacement of the missing hormones. Daily oral prednisone is the replacement medication for cortisol. Aldosterone supplementation is typically by a veterinarian administered injection of desoxycorticosterone pivulate (DOCP) every few weeks. Adjustment of the doses of medications are common in the first few months until a patient becomes regulated. If a patient is already suffering an Addisonian Crisis, he or she most likely will require hospitalization in order to be stabilized prior to beginning treatment at home.

Addison’s disease cannot be cured, however as long as the patient is receiving hormone replacement therapy, their prognosis and quality of life are excellent. Most patients with Addison’s disease go on to lead full and long lives like Fluffy! ▪


One way to warm the freezing temperatures February brings is to celebrate St. Valentine’s

Day. It is something to look forward to during this cold and snowy month. I love baking heart shaped cookies for friends. Keeping the oven lit keeps me extra warm and cozy.

This special holiday isn’t just about having a sweetheart or cupid shooting arrows. It’s truly a day of love. I love to send Valentines, the cheerful kind depicting hearts and flowers complete with bright red envelopes. Roses and candy are fine but think of the joy of the recipients when they open the mail and find that they have been on your mind and in your thoughts. This is also a great day to phone those you love but haven’t spoken to in a long time. Perhaps you have an older aunt who doesn’t live nearby or a friend who has moved away. This is a wonderful opportunity to catch up on old times and the present.

I’ve always loved making my own traditions in addition to the ones my family celebrated. Having friends over for a Valentine’s brunch or dinner, enables me to be festive and creative. I might bake scones and prepare tea and sweets or cook a fancy dinner with prosecco or champagne and lots of chocolate for dessert. My table is always laden with fine china, crystal and silver. Flowers on the table are a must, red of course. Not one person can leave before being presented with a small gift to commemorate this sweet holiday.

How adorable are the faces of young children who return home from school with a Valentine in hand. It means a special person gave it to them and that

memory will stay with them forever. Best of all is staying at home with that special person. Cooking a nice meal and watching a good movie is a treat. It gives us time to relax and catch up on recent activities. If you happen to be alone that evening, pour a glass of wine, take a bubble bath, have a nice dinner and eat a box of chocolate for dessert. You deserve to treat yourself well and enjoy the comfort of your home.

I am sure the Hallmark channel will have lots of romantic movies for your enjoyment. Sometimes it’s fun to get lost in the romance and forget about the

chaotic world we live in. Just for fun we can revel in our dreams.

Last but not least, we should count our furry friends as Valentines as well. Who could ever be as loyal and loving as your dog or cat? They love to cuddle up and keep us warm and their antics always amuse us. Our pets get us through the winter and keep us smiling. The pleasure they bring is priceless. Surely, they deserve extra treats on this happy day. Hopefully cupid will strike your house with his arrow and keep the fire of love burning all year! ▪

Heart To Heartby Antoinette Maiorini

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SMALL BUSINESS: IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS

Eleven Years of Economic Growth! Are Happy Days Here Again?by Ed Powers

FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

The U.S. economy is entering its longest period of economic growth in its history. The

outlook for 2020 has been considerably improved by the stability and strength of growth and money supply both in the United States and in the European Union. Christine La Garde who had been running the International Monetary Fund brilliantly has stabilized the money supply growth of France, Germany, Italy and Spain and stopped the economic decline in those countries. Christine La Garde will become the new President of the European Union which guarantees no recession in Europe in 2020. This is great news for the United States.

The money supply growth of the United States has also stabilized under the Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. The United States growth may be 3% in 2020. Janet Yellen the former head of the Federal Reserve was able to achieve U.S. economic growth of 2% in the period 2010 to 2016 after the banking and mortgage market collapse of 2006 through 2007 when 5 million U.S. families lost their homes through bankruptcy. (Mr. Powell was the Assistant and student to Janet Yellen for many years).

Milton Friedman, my teacher at the University of Chicago, often mused that money supply growth of 3% a year would be all we needed except for the problems of the economic cycle with booms and recessions.

That is why the Federal Reserve was created in 1913.

The United States has reestablished grain trade agreements with China,

especially for soybeans which saves many U.S. farmers from bankruptcy who had to plant late because of the disastrous floods in the states all along the Missouri River and the upper mid-west. Federal funding was helpful to pay the mortgage, but farm equipment sales simply stopped. Now they will begin again. The Midwest will begin again. The Midwest is also the breadbasket for the entire world and grain sales will soar again. Wheat sales were redirected to Argentina and Japan in 2019 because of tariffs.

Each component of the U.S. economy is becoming poised for another exceptional year in 2020. Gross National Product is basically made up of two-thirds consumer spending plus one sixth capital goods spending and finally one sixth U.S. Government spending. Gasoline prices have been low again this year thanks to the fact that the U.S. became energy self-sufficient under President Obama and no longer has to rely on Saudi Arabia for oil. Unemployment of only 3.5% will ensure another “ blowoff” Christmas spending year.

U.S. government defense department spending led by the new John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier with 4,800 crew

members will be the highest in history. Capital goods spending has begun to rise now that Canada, Mexico and U.S. trade agreement have finally been signed. (All three trading partners are very happy again.) The United States is Mexico’s largest trading partner with hundreds of trucks crossing the border with Mexico every day.

Because of the continuous economic expansion, the New York stock market will probably hit 30,000 as measured by the Dow Jones Index in 2020. This will be based on the valid measurement of earnings growth of the 30 component stocks not money supply growth. Capital goods spending will increase strongly as the U.S. concerns about China trade will slowly fade. Capital goods spending was the only slow grower of the three major economic categories in 2019. The great industrialists of the U.S. were reluctant to build new factories if tariffs were going to hurt their sales. The unilateral trade agreements with Mexico, Canada, England, Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, and soon to be with Brexit will be a pleasant surprise after all of the tariff woes.

For the industrialists as well as for the rest of us, happy days are here again. ▪

18 | www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com www.greatsouthbaymagazine.com | 19

Everyone wants to start the new year with resolutions, new game plans, new ideas. “New year new

me!” This is old and boring. Speaking of old and boring I turn 37 this month. Now, to my 8-year-old daughter I am very old. However, to my grandmother I am still a baby. Why is that? Perspective. That’s why. That is a great word. As a business owner your perspective and your customers perspective can differ greatly. Most small business owners are too close to their business and struggle to put into perspective what customers may think. What they need? What they want? What they don’t need? What they don’t want? Well, what does that mean? We, as small business owners, put too much pressure into trying to satisfy customers that we sometimes do not consider satisfying less. Here is an example. Go to any Subway and order a sandwich. When they bag up your sandwich, they will provide 2 napkins. That’s it. All of them do this. This may seem very minor but then keep in mind customer satisfaction. Me as a customer, got everything I needed. Subway doesn’t need to provide enough napkins for a small family and extra for my glove box, do they? So, they don’t. They provide the service. I felt satisfied after I had my lunch. So, there are many things you should be able to self-evaluate and decide…is this something I need to be providing? Take this for another example. Offering a discount to pay for services with cash. Sounds pretty simple. Are you required to accept credit cards? If you do, you know how expensive those fees can be. Why not offer a discount to pay with cash and eliminate all those unnecessary cc processing fees? Many businesses in

Long Island have switched over to cash discounting and have saved thousands and thousands per year.

How else can a business give less but at the same time satisfy their customers? New perspective will help you discover just that. A great way for a business to collect some perspective is with customer surveys. Gather some data from new and old customers. Look through your yelp and google reviews. Look for trends in your industry. If you think you can stick with the same old plan and all of a sudden start making more money, then I have a bean to sell you. Look at Coca-Cola for example. This company is always making changes. Trying something new. Making a splash. They are not reinventing the wheel. They are not shutting down operations and re writing the script. They make small changes and improvements. We should all hope to have a company as big as them some day. Our reality though is local Long Island people.

Always keep a fresh perspective. You need to be your best critic. If you do not see the problem first, then that is the problem. My father always told me things are not what they seem. A prominent cable company that offers local TV, Phone and Internet was having an issue selling one of its International TV packages. The price point on this was fair and they couldn’t understand why their sales were so low. After researching they decided to increase the price by 25%. After this was done, they started to sell more then they ever have before. They did not add anything of value or change anything but the monthly price. What changed? PERSPECTIVE! Yes! Before this the price was below the $19.99 mark and was perceived as cheap. The price increased to $24.99 and all of a sudden this wasn’t perceived as cheap anymore. It was looked at as value and a necessary luxury. Wow. This can 100% be done in your business. Now take that into perspective! ▪


Making personal changes in life requires determination, perseverance, focus,

support and self-love. Making personal changes means breaking old life-long patterns that do not serve us anymore. This is where the work begins. This is where the character is built. We idolize our sports, musical and acting heroes all the time but don’t recognize and acknowledge that the day to day person who goes to work to support his or her own family is our hero. Often times we do not acknowledge our own commitment, drive, willpower and discipline it takes to move forward in life to serve people, our community and our family.

Loving and serving ourselves is a balancing game of good health, good spirits, good relationships, good work, good fun and so much more. Proper rest with proper food and exercise is the fuel or energy that sustains us and keeps the cycles of life moving. Life is movement. Keeping our mind and body active is important particularly in our later years when the busyness of life is not the driving force and life slows down to a slower pace.

Serving and loving ourselves comes first. This may sound a bit narcissistic, but the wellspring of life comes from within. It’s best to have a surplus or an overflow of self-love from which we can give love to others freely and repeatedly on a daily basis. It has been said many times, “Giving is Receiving”. An act of kindness will fill your “personal cup” of cheer. Giving from the heart. Giving sincerely without expecting anything

in return. Giving and knowing that you have done your best for the other person.

I had recently watched a Ted Talks show and Brene Brown was speaking about vulnerability. The information in this paragraph is from her talk. She explained that vulnerability is a form of strength. Being perfectly imperfect. Being able to feel the feelings. Being able to connect with people is the most important feeling of all. Having the courage to move forward. The original definition of courage, not bravery, in the English language is based off the root word, Cour- meaning heart. To tell the story of who you are with your whole heart. The courage to be imperfect. The compassion to be kind to yourself first. To feel that you are worthy. To have connection as a result of authenticity. Vulnerability is necessary. It is not a bad thing or a good thing. It just is. Having the willingness to do things knowing there are no guarantees.

February is the month representing the heart. Valentine’s Day. Heart Health Month.

In Chinese medicine, the Heart is called the Monarch, the Ruler. All emotions are felt in the heart. Is it true when they say to lead with your heart? I’d like to think so. We are all one. We are all connected. Please send out simple acts of kindness throughout your day in honor of this month representing the heart. ▪Anthony Cerabino is a licensed Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist and NAET Practitioner and founder of Healthcare Wellness Center, 85 W. Main Street, Ste. 302, Bay Shore. www.healthcarewellness.org 631-665-1666

Love And Servingby Anthony Cerabino, BM, LMT, MS, Lac

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Start the New Year Off Right!by John T McLoughlin DDS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Now is a good time to review those New Year’s resolutions, and make sure a trip to the

dentist is included. Start the year off right with a cleaning and an exam. If there is outstanding treatment you have been putting off, now is a great time to schedule an appointment. Your full dental benefits most likely are available to apply toward the fee. You may have replenished your flexible spending account as well.

Remember, healthy teeth and gums are linked to a healthy body. Don’t let existing problems worsen. Take the first step and schedule an appointment.

Good home care is another great resolution. It’s simple, brush and floss twice a day and use a fluoride rinse. If you start doing this twice daily starting

today, you will be amazed at the difference in your checkups. This is an easy thing to do…no trips to the gym, just two minutes in the morning and at night. Purchasing an electric toothbrush and water flosser can also make a major improvement to your home care.

Schedule an appointment to discuss things that have bothered you about your smile. Your dentist can do an evaluation for Invisalign, invisible braces that can make a dramatic difference in your smile. You will be amazed at how quickly you will see results.

Dental Implants and veneers are another way to improve your smile. Schedule an evaluation today and by summer you will have the smile you deserve.

A teeth whitening is another great way to start the year. Schedule an appointment after you have had a cleaning to see how you can enjoy a healthy, white smile in one office visit.

There are so many options available now from your dentist that you may not be aware of. Start the New Year off right and make that appointment. Don’t hide your smile or put up with pain and discomfort. Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Your dentist is your ally in obtaining good oral health.

Hope to see you soon. ▪John T McLoughlin, DDS has been transforming smiles in the local area for over 25 years. How can he help you? Like him on FaceBook at John T McLoughlin DDS or check out www.greatsmile.tv or www.smiletoday.tv. Look for his Quick Dental Tips on YouTube


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You’d have to have been living in an isolation booth for the past few years not to have heard

the song, “Let It Go,” from the Disney film “Frozen.” Sung by Elsa, one of the main characters, the song expresses her realization that trying to control her special talents has only caused more chaos and pain. Rarely has any song become such a cultural touchstone, its message resonating deeply with audiences, especially among young girls who today are finally being encouraged to embrace their individuality and personal power.

But these lyrics represent a philosophy that does not come easily to human beings, who have been obsessed with maintaining control over nearly everything for centuries. We are generally uncomfortable with the unknown and our march of progress and invention has largely come out of our profound desire to control our environment, each other, and ourselves. We have labored to order every aspect of our lives, from food production, all of Nature itself, to moral behavior, romance, and international relations. We even try to govern our own emotions, a practice that has lined the pockets of psychiatrists the world over.

A Magical Life cannot find you if you are barricaded in a life where every

aspect is orderly and neat. Magic is inherently wild and unpredictable. It cannot be lassoed into submission and squeezed between orderly rows of tightly scheduled tasks. One must lure it gently with space and flexibility, giving the Universe room for the element of surprise. If we decide we know exactly what we want and precisely what it should look like, we are apt to be disappointed. Real Magic can sneak up behind you when you are least expecting it, and if you are not willing to entertain what you have never imagined, you might miss it altogether.

Besides, as Elsa finds out, when you are blessed with a touch of Magic, but try to keep it confined in a box, it has a way of bursting out, not always in convenient ways.

The popularity of this song and film tells us that it is time to throw away once and for all the oppression of conformity and the need to be ‘normal.’ Each of us is a wonderfully unique spirit with talents and skills, colors and perspectives unlike anyone else’s, and the World is in desperate need of our special contributions. When we all bring our quirky gifts to the table, the resulting feast is incredibly rich. ‘Let it go’ can mean we are to let go of worrying about the judgments of others and our own critical voice, and be ourselves, as messy, unusual, and crazy as we may be.

It also means that in order to live a Magical Life, we must allow ourselves to be amazed by what shows up; surprises that can take us in new and exciting directions, which we might never have imagined on our own.

And, we are also asked to let go of the toxic prisons we have built for ourselves: our ancient grudges, our rigid beliefs, our habits and insistence on being right, on being safe, on being in control. Magic demands that we surrender the static and predictable to the possibility of wonder, joy, and growth.

The American naturalist, John Burroughs, once wrote, “Leap, and the net will appear.” (Not, “Wait for the net and then jump.”) This phrase has become a kind of guiding tenet of New Age philosophy 150 years after it was written. It speaks to a kind of courage and abandon that trusts the Universe to catch us when we let go, much as our parents did when we were babes learning to walk – which, in many ways, we still are! In this fresh New Year, my sincere wish for you is that you may find the courage to be yourself, to “Let It Go,” and allow yourself perhaps to fly!

Your Magical Life awaits. ▪Questions, comments, suggestions, dear reader? I’d love to hear from you at [email protected] anytime.

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Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalkerby Skyler Thayer

THE GEEK AND YOU

Even though it’s a new year, I must go back into 2019 for this month’s column. In good

conscience, I could not ignore the ending of the extremely popular Star Wars franchise. With a December 20, 2019 release date, Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker makes for the ninth and final film of the main narrative, or as some fans call it, the “Skywalker Saga.”

For an interesting piece of trivia, in addition to finishing in the same year as Marvel Studio’s “Infinity Saga” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Lucasfilm’s “Skywalker Saga” spans across 42 years and 9 films, meanwhile the “Infinity Saga” swaps those two statistics with 23 films and 11 years.

Now, before I continue, I would like to highlight two things.

***Firstly, I am about to spoil major plot points within Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. For those of you who haven’t seen the film yet and wish to avoid spoilers, please stop reading, then revisit once you have.

Secondly, I admit that I am a casual Star Wars fan. Most of my knowledge comes from the movies, my friends, and two Star Wars video games: Star Wars: Obi-Wan on Xbox and Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron on PlayStation Portable. Still, I know that there’s a lot going on within George Lucas’s universe, may it be canon or not. Given that I am a casual fan, I would like to limit myself to just the movies, in order to avoid writing out of ignorance.

With that said, the biggest criticism I have towards Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker is that

during Emperor Palpatine’s final return, it’s revealed that Rey is his biological granddaughter. Simply put, I don’t recall any hints or indications from the previous two films, Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens and Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi, that he would return. This in itself doesn’t bother me, but lazy story writing for the sake of convenience does.

For instance, while Rey has been spending her time either waiting for her parents, or hoping to find them, it is revealed that they’re from Palpatine lineage. Even so, neither of her parents are named, nor it wasn’t made known which one was the child to Emperor Palpatine. To me, these aspects would naturally help build the internal tension within Rey as she chooses to accept her lineage.

Moreover, as a writer who greatly enjoys complex, intertwining plots, I feel that this tension was misused. Instead of force feeding the idea that Rey is a Palpatine in only one film, there could’ve been some details that crept across all three titles of the Sequel Trilogy. As an example, there could’ve been a marking on the ship or a person with a name tag shown in Rey’s flashbacks of being “abandoned” by her parents.

Even with a little disappointment from poor story planning, I still appreciate this last film for what it is. Incidentally, I enjoy the many interpretations of the subtitle, “The Rise of Skywalker.” The phrase could refer to Kylo Ren changing sides, and opening himself up to the light side of the Force while assuming his old name and identity, Ben Solo. Even though he keeps the Solo name,

he gets his Skywalker blood from his mother, Leia.

Meanwhile, the subtitle can refer to the main protagonist of the Sequel Trilogy, Rey. Yes, she is a Palpatine, but after the Emperor drains Rey of her life force, the then turned Ben Solo sacrifices himself by transferring his own life force into her. As I see it, at that very moment, Rey becomes a Skywalker. In other words, the main protagonist inherits the name, while the evil mastermind has been defeated, which leads to victory.

Personally, I believe the subtitle relates to both instances, and as a casual fan, I’m okay with that. Nonetheless, I am also interested to hear what others have to say about this last movie, since there has been a wide range of opinions. If you’d like to give your own short review or critique of Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker, please contact the Editor-In-Chief, Nina Algeri.

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PUZZLES

DINING GUIDE

Copyright ©2020, PennyDellPuzzles.com Puzzle Solutions are on the next page >

4 5 1 2 8 7 3 5 9 4 16 5 8 2 8 5 3 2 4 5 63 5 1 9 6 9 4 9 1 5 3

SUDOKU To solve, place a number into each box so that each row across, each column down, and each small 9-box square within the larger square (there are nine of these) will contain each number 1 through 9. Remember that no number may appear more than once in any row, column, or 9-box square; this will help you solve the puzzle.

ALLAGASH

BAKER

CHARLES

CHIPUXET

CONNECTICUT

ELLIS

HOOSIC

IPSWICH

LITTLE

MERRIMACK

METTAWEE

MOOSE

PACHAUG

PAWTUXET

PENOBSCOT

PINE

PLEASANT

PONAGANSET

QUEEN

QUINNIPIAC

SAKONNET

TAUNTON

THAMES

WAITS

WARE

WHITE

WILLIAMS

WOOD

WORD SEARCH NEW ENGLAND RIVERSThe six New England states have over 115 rivers running through them. The longest is the CONNECTICUT River, which spans more than 400 miles and runs through Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and (of course) Connecticut. You’ll find that New England river along with 27 others flowing through the diagram.

Puzzle Solutions are on the next page >

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With a friendly staff, our sushi chefs serve delicious sushi & sashimi & create special rolls such as the Long Island Roll & the Bayport Roll.

Mannino’s Restaurant & Lounge1575 Montauk Highway Oakdale, NY 11769(631) 218-0909www.manninosrestaurant.comHours: Tues-Thurs: 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: 2pm-9pm

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PUZZLES

Copyright ©2020, PennyDellPuzzles.com

4 3 7 5 9 1 6 2 81 8 6 2 4 7 9 3 55 2 9 3 8 6 4 7 16 5 3 7 1 8 2 9 49 4 8 6 5 2 3 1 77 1 2 4 3 9 8 5 63 7 5 8 2 4 1 6 98 6 1 9 7 3 5 4 22 9 4 1 6 5 7 8 3

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

413121

716151

9181

20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

53433323

36 37 38 39

40 41 42

43 44 45 46 47

2515059484

554535

857565

N O D D R A W H A S HA N Y E A V E E L L AT E E T E R E D E D I T

O P E N D A T EC L A N R U I N SR A N T S E R E S A MI N D O O R K E T T L EB A Y L I E D O U S E

R O B E S K N O TM A M A R O S EO V E N S I L E N T L YP O R K H E A T E Y EE W E S E R R S N E T

ACROSS 1. Indicate “yes” 4. Sketch 8. Corned-beef dish12. “...have you –– wool?”13. Roof part14. Singer Fitzgerald15. Was unsteady17. Polish text

18. Ajar19. Palm fruit20. Kindred group23. Spoils26. Tirades28. Before: poetic29. Singer Smith32. Not outside34. Kitchen vessel

36. Wide ocean inlet37. Mislead verbally39. Drench (a campfire)40. Judges’ gowns42. Hair tangle43. Doll’s cry46. Fragrant flower48. Baking chamber49. Without a sound

53. Bacon or ham54. Warmth55. Watch closely56. Female flock members57. Bungles58. Fishing gear

DOWN 1. –– King Cole 2. Inseparable 3. Food coloring 4. Profound 5. More unique 6. Fifth or Park 7. Exchange vows 8. Takes to heart 9. Alan of “M*A*S*H”10. Skirt vent11. Loathe16. The Lone Ranger’s

companion20. Nursery item21. Actress Turner22. Soup-can artist Warhol24. Annoy25. Require

27. Fly without a copilot29. Daze temporarily30. Too31. Come together33. Chest bone35. Souvenir38. More surreal40. Puts in order of preference41. Like some energy43. Be gloomy44. Confess publicly45. Humble47. Tennis units49. That girl50. Hamilton bill51. Strong cleansing solution52. So far

Puzzle SolutionsSUDOKU CROSSWORD

WORD SEARCH

CROSSWORD

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