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TBR Staff

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TBR News Media covers everything happening on the North Shore of Suffolk County from Cold Spring Harbor to Wading River.

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Photo from Brandpoint

Over a year and a half of coping with the pandemic is taking a toll on everyone’s emotional and mental health – and may be affecting children and teens even more than adults. According to recent research from the Kaiser Family Foundation, over 25% of high school students have experienced a decline in emotional and cognitive health since March 2020, and over 20% of parents with children aged 5-12 reported similar worsening conditions for their children. And as kids everywhere are now getting back into classrooms, their feelings of stress and anxiety may also be hard for them to cope with.

Fortunately, there are proactive steps parents can take to help children and teens manage their feelings during this transition back to school. Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare, offers her tips to help your child adjust to the ongoing changes and challenges as they head back to class.

1. Share information

It’s important to be proactive, providing your children with age-appropriate information and support, now and as the school year continues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, CDC.gov, is a great resource for learning how to talk to your child about COVID-19.

Beyond talking to your child, remember to take time to listen and acknowledge their concerns. Be emotionally supportive and understand that their worries may go beyond just the initial back-to-school phase. After such a long period of change and upheaval in their lives, helping children reduce stress and providing strong support can help them get through any possible challenges that may arise.

2. Help children feel secure

Going back to school after such a long pause may feel daunting for children. Be reassuring about safety and validate their feelings by letting them know it’s OK to feel upset, scared, anxious, down or even angry. You can also share some of the ways that you manage your feelings, to help them learn from you. Make sure children know that they can ask you questions at any time. For adolescents, consider using self-care tools like the Sanvello app to help them navigate difficult emotions.

3. Listen and watch

Parents and family members are often the first line of defense for children who may be struggling but are unable to tell you what they need. Let them know you’re there to listen and that it’s safe to share how they’re feeling with you. Pay attention to more than just words. By watching your child and listening to how they speak, you can be aware of their moods and notice any uncharacteristic changes in behavior, so you’ll know when it’s time to seek expert support.

For example, some common signs of depression in children include feeling sad, hopeless or irritable, having a hard time paying attention, low energy or fatigue, feeling worthless or useless and showing self-injury and self-destructive behaviors. Contact your child’s healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about behavior changes that you’re seeing.

4. Define boundaries and create regular routines

Consider limiting exposure to news coverage as well as to social media. Instead, spend time interacting with each other in positive ways, like family dinners, movie nights and game nights. Consider asking your child if they’d like to start a new after-school activity, sport or hobby that interests them. Establishing regular routines can help provide children with structure when they’re not in the classroom, which also helps them to manage their emotional well-being.

5. Take action

Discuss any concerns you have about your child or teen with your pediatrician or family physician as soon as possible. Your healthcare provider may recommend a plan of action or even a counselor who could help you find ways to reduce unhealthy stress and improve your child’s overall health and well-being.

For more health and wellness information, visit UHC.com.

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Pixabay photo

Many have asked what has happened to us as a society.

As we prepare to remember the victims of 9/11 in just a few weeks, we are reminded of a time 20 years ago when our communities came together to help each other. We applauded our first responders, offered our shoulders to those who were crying and all of us came together as one. The amount of empathy Americans, as well as those around the world, showed for the victims and their families was awe-inspiring. While 9/11 was a day to remember, 9/12 was just as important because it showed that we could be unified. 

However, the tragedies and issues caused by COVID-19 have left us more divided than ever. Many scratch their heads wondering why people won’t follow the guidance of medical professionals, who last year simply asked us to wear masks and social distance while they figured out the best line of defense against the virus. Despite the significant strides made in medicine over the last few decades, a new form of a virus can still take time to figure out. And then this year, finally the vaccine that we all were waiting for was released, but yet many have refused to get it to help the common good and themselves.

It seems at times we have become selfish and self-absorbed, not worrying about anyone but ourselves. Then again, we shouldn’t be surprised. Look at our roads. More and more drivers engage in reckless driving, whether speeding down the road, weaving in and out of traffic, not pulling over for emergency vehicles or blowing through red lights and stop signs.

In the days of social media, we see too many people believing that their way is the only way and that those who think differently to them are evil or stupid to a point where we don’t respect our fellow citizens.

We have become so selfish and judgmental at times that we forget when we step out our door it’s no longer about us. The world does not revolve around one person, not even one family or social circle. As we navigate through the day, while our feelings and beliefs are valid and should be respected, the same goes for respecting others. We should also listen to each other. Really listen. It can be difficult at times to balance our wants and needs with the desires of others, but it’s the only way we can live together in peace.

Many have said they don’t want a new normal — they just want normal. Yet, it seems as if a new normal is needed, one where people’s actions show that they care about those around them.

It’s been said that learning about our history is important, so we don’t repeat the mistakes of past generations and benefit from the good elements, too. Now, let’s remember the tragic event of 9/11 and its aftermath in order to be reminded of how we united and moved forward during one of the most difficult times in American history.

We did it then and we can do it again — together.  

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Sometimes food can be presented so beautifully, it’s hard to take that first bite. However, once you dig your spoon into the bowl, there is no going back.

Imagine a bite that is chilled, sweet and creamy all at the same time. It’s luscious, fruity and absolutely divine. It’s a summertime ice cream recipe you’ll cherish and make again and again throughout the season.

This delicious Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream was created with summertime relaxation in mind. It’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious, especially when it’s made with fresh ingredients right at home for a perfect addition to nearly any poolside event.

This ice cream features the rich tartness of frozen fruit and a sweet creaminess from the coconut milk. The two flavors of ice cream create a unique combination that’s out-of-this-world delicious.

Enjoy a delightful treat with your loved ones as you make memories that will last a lifetime. Out in the heat or indoors cooling off, it’s a spoonful of summertime that’s hard to skip.

Find more sweet treats for summer at Culinary.net.

Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream

Yield: 11 cups

Ingredients:

Berry Ice Cream:

  • 2 pounds frozen berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Coconut Ice Cream:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. To make berry ice cream: In blender, pulse frozen berries, sweetened condensed milk, honey and salt until smooth, scraping down sides.
  2. Pour mixture into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 hours, or until set.
  3. To make coconut ice cream: In large mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. In medium bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, salt and 1 cup whipped cream until combined. Add remaining whipped cream and whisk until combined.
  5. Pour into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 hours, or until set.
  6. Scoop desired amount of each ice cream into bowls to serve. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired.

See video of recipe here.

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Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

At age 67, rock music enthusiast, avid runner and California native Jon was brought to his knees by shingles, a disease that approximately one in three people in the United States will develop in their lifetime.

Jon maintains a healthy and active lifestyle. He is the first American to reach 50 consecutive years of running at least one mile every day. Despite this healthy lifestyle, he contracted shingles and was shocked by how much damage it caused a physically fit man like himself.

“I felt a stinging sensation after a long bike ride. It was a hot September day and I figured I had been exposed to poison oak. I continued on without thinking it could be something more.”

Anyone who has gotten chickenpox is at risk of contracting shingles, also known as herpes zoster. When chickenpox becomes dormant within the nerves, it can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Shingles typically presents as a painful, itchy rash that develops on one side of the body and can last for two to four weeks.

“My experience with shingles was excruciating. I experienced a range of symptoms, from trouble sleeping because of the blisters to crippling pain throughout my body.”

When the pain did not subside, Jon visited his doctor, who confirmed that he had shingles. Jon’s active lifestyle immediately changed. He refrained from going out in public and could only take cold showers because hot water would reactivate the irritating blisters.

“Shingles took over my life. I felt helpless in my own body. This was truly a paralyzing feeling for me.”

“My experience with shingles ended up lasting about six months. Though I am feeling much better today, I can still feel the stiffness left by shingles in my right glute.”

Approximately 10-18 percent of patients with shingles experience post-herpetic neuralgia, a pain lasting from at least three months up to several years.

“My biggest regret is that I took my health for granted. I didn’t take the time to learn about shingles symptoms or how likely it was for people my age to develop this virus.”

The truth is, anyone 50 years or older, even if you’re a healthy, active person, is considered at risk for shingles.

Jon learned firsthand that shingles doesn’t play favorites. Now, as a GSK spokesperson, Jon works to educate adults about shingles, the risks of the disease and the importance of talking to a doctor about vaccination.

If you’re 50 years of age and older, talk to your doctor about vaccination against shingles. Vaccination will help reduce the risk of developing shingles and the potential long-term pain from post-herpetic neuralgia, a common complication caused by the disease.

For more information, visit www.ShinglesDoesntPlayFavorites.com.

This is one person’s experience; other people’s experience with shingles may be different.

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Schools in the Comsewogue district are getting a facelift before school starts up. Photo from Comsewogue School District

By Deniz Yildirim

New school year, new(er) schools! 

The Comsewogue School District is working hard to get ready for the 2021 school year with some major updates. 

A state-mandated five-year building conditions (and recommended improvements) report was unanimously accepted by the Comsewogue School District Board of Education on March 5, 2018. 

In an effort to improve district facilities, construction is underway to improve health, safety and infrastructure.

Photo from Comsewogue School District

According to the school’s website the proposed bond will secure “facility improvements [which will] preserve the integrity of the school buildings, address repairs, improve instructional resources for all and upgrade athletic facilities.”

Come September, students will find new art rooms, smoother curbsides and new classroom cabinets. 

“I’m pleased with the progress” said Jennifer Quinn, superintendent of schools. “But we still have a lot of work to do.” 

The art room at Terryville Road Elementary School has been completely gutted and supplies have been weeded, organized and await new storage shelves. 

“After the challenges of last year, a new art room for students to be creative is just what we need,” said Terryville principal Annemarie Sciove. 

Parking lot renovations at the high school, a new lobby at JFK Middle School and additional receptacles at Clinton Avenue Elementary School are among some of the specific projects underway this summer. 

Comsewogue regularly posts updates on Instagram and the school website so community members can see what’s happening. 

“It’s important to share our work and let the community know what’s happening with our schools,” said Don Heberer, administrator for instructional technologies and overseer of the school’s website. 

More pictures, videos and detailed information including comprehensive facts and figures can be found on comsewogue.k12.ny.us.

Deniz Yildirim is a librarian at the Terryville Road Elementary School.

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Baked Lemon Donuts

A Lemon Delight for Any Occasion

(Culinary.net) Sweets with enhanced fruit flavors are often among the best of the best when it comes to family treats. Fruit can add levels of sweet, tart or even citrus flavor to all kinds of recipes.

From grapefruit to berries and lemons, there are a variety of fruits that can take your delightful desserts to the next level of flavor.

For example, these Baked Lemon Donuts are a unique dessert that can double as a sweet, fruity breakfast. Delicious and packed with lemon zest, they are coated in a lemon-sugar topping for a burst of lemon in every bite.

The end result is fluffy little donuts that are filled with light and scrumptious lemon flavor and covered with lemon sugar for a hard-to-resist lemony treat.

Late night or early morning, these donuts can leave you – as well as anyone you choose to share them with – craving “just one more.”

Find more unique recipes at Culinary.net.

Baked Lemon Donuts

YIELD: Serves 12

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups flour

3/4  cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 eggs

2 tablespoons butter, melted

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1/2   teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon zest

Lemon Sugar Topping:

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 cup butter, melted

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 350 F.

In large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

Add buttermilk, eggs, butter, lemon juice, vanilla extract and lemon zest. Stir until combined.

Pipe batter into donut pan.

Bake 9 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

To make topping: In bowl, combine sugar with lemon zest. In separate bowl, place melted butter.

Place donut face down in melted butter then face down in lemon sugar topping. Repeat with all donuts.

Watch video here:

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From left, Michael and Deborah Livering and Terri Morrissey with an announcement that PAS will reopen in September. Photo from PAS

By Michael Tessler

What is a community without theatre? Theatre brings us comfort, joy, a sense of wonder, togetherness, and an appreciation for life. For children, especially those lucky enough to find themselves on stage, it is a great escape and a wonderful place to learn about humanity and its many expressions. It is a safe way to learn and explore. For theatre kids like me, it is a home away from home and the place you can truly feel most like yourself. 

For so many children in our community, the Performing Arts Studio (PAS) of New York at 224 East Main Street in Port Jefferson is the beating heart of our hometown. Mayor Margot Garant has called it a “hidden gem.” Right now, this incredible staple of our village is in need of our help. 

For 25 years, a dynamic trio who has brought music, laughter, tears, and every imaginable expression of the arts to a small but magical theatre in Port Jefferson. They are a gift to this community. Deborah and Michael Livering  and Terri Morrissey were some of the first people to ever believe in me. They are true professionals. Class acts who have impeccable talent and have chosen to dedicate their lives to helping young performers find themselves and immerse themselves in all the wonder and adventure theatre has to offer. 

This small studio is unique. Its black box stage is cozy but limitless. Countless children have spent their days after school and summer breaks discovering themselves and the magic of the arts. This is a place where lifelong friends are made. I would know; even two decades later and my old cast members still feel like family. 

Times Beacon Record News Media has been the beneficiary of PAS’ great talent as well; our paper’s first original film One Life to Give and its sequel, Traitor, featured several veteran actors trained at PAS including Dave Morrissey, Jr. and Max Golub.

A veteran of Broadway, Deborah Livering has taken her remarkable voice and talent and used it to uplift a new generation of performers. Her husband Michael is a master of the keyboard and Miss Terri is the most beautiful and pure soul you’ll ever meet — the lessons she’s taught me and countless other children have guided us through life and endure long after curtain call.

PAS has been closed due to COVID-19 since March of 2020 and forced to downsize. The show must go on and our friends at PAS need our help. They’ve launched a GoFundMe with plans to reopen in September and the community has already been pouring in with words of encouragement and much needed donations. 

Theatre isn’t just great entertainment. It is the embodiment of community — countless individuals coming together to make something truly magical. Let’s help make sure live theatre makes a roaring comeback in Port Jefferson. You can support PAS by donating at https://gofund.me/89cc325e.

I’d also strongly encourage you to visit my dear friend Jeffrey Sanzel and the amazing folks at Theatre Three as they return to live shows. How blessed we are as a community to have stages filled with so much love and endless talent. Tickets are on sale now! 

Michael Tessler is a film and television producer living in Los Angeles. He previously served as Director of Media Productions for TBR News Media and is a proud PAS alum.

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Photo by Beverly C. Tyler

WILDLIFE AT THE TYLERS

Beverly C. Tyler snapped this photo of a groundhog at his home in Setauket on Aug. 1. He writes, ‘A visitor to our backyard who did not see his shadow.’ In addition to this cutie, the Tylers have had many wildlife visitors this year including  quail, fox, turkey, red-tailed hawks, snakes and deer

Send your Photo of the Week to [email protected]

 

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Pixabay photo

Things aren’t back to normal yet, and unfortunately for a few good weeks, we got a taste of what freedom from the pandemic was like. 

People began getting vaccinated, families were reunited, and parties were officially free of restrictions. 

The people that got vaccinated knew they could still be carriers, but a little cold is better than being on a ventilator, right? 

Businesses were thriving at the start of the summer — after more than a year of having their doors shut and no revenue coming in. 

But things turned pretty quickly, and we’re disappointed now. 

The fact that people threw their masks away when Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) lifted the state restrictions was not the brightest move — we should have kept the restrictions just a tad bit longer because now we have the Delta variant and it’s not looking too good. 

Since people (vaccinated or not) have had the chance to breathe again, party again and feel 90% normal again, they don’t want to bring back the masks. 

We understand that. They’re uncomfortable and for us ladies, it takes our makeup off rather quick. 

But we’re keeping them on (again) to keep other people safe. 

Remember in the beginning of the pandemic when everyone was all in this together? We thanked first responders and believed the science. What happened? Why is this, all of a sudden, a hoax? 

Some people cannot get vaccinated right now, and that’s okay. But there are other people who are choosing not to and are not being honest about it. They’re either too lazy or too afraid. 

With schools reopening in a few weeks, the debates are increasing as to whether or not children should wear masks in school. Considering those under 12 cannot get vaccinated yet, and many parents have chosen not to have their children get the shot, we feel it’s imperative that students be required to mask up. With the surge of the Delta variant and the possibility of another one, the virus could potentially spread quickly in classrooms and then in the surrounding communities.

New vaccines, new medications and new things are terrifying — but public health is more important, and we still need to be in this together.

COVID-19 is never going to leave, but we can alleviate it. 

Be smart and do your part to keep your loved ones, neighbors and yourself healthy.

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