Business

Photo courtesy of Town of Brookhaven

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (second from right) was on-hand for the grand opening ribbon cutting of Daisy’s Nashville Lounge, located at 275 Route 25A, Suite 33, Miller Place in North Country Plaza on Sept. 28.

This is the second location of the popular nightspot, with the first Daisy’s Nashville Lounge established in Patchogue in 2020. Daisy’s offers authentic Nashville fare with an ambience that will make you feel like you’re on the Nashville Strip with the best in country music on Long Island. Dinner reservations are recommended. 

For more information, call Daisy’s Nashville Lounge at 631-403-2900, visit the website at www.daisysli.com or Facebook at Daisy’s Nashville Lounge.

FCA’s Ryan Kiser (holding scissors) is flanked by FCA President and CEO Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds (left) and Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine (right) and enthusiastic FCA staff and supporters.
Free Recovery Center Serves Long Island’s North and South Forks

Family and Children’s Association (FCA), one of Long Island’s leading human services agencies, wrapped up National Recovery Month by cutting the ribbon today on its THRIVE East End Recovery Center in Riverhead. The event was attended by FCA management, THRIVE staff and volunteers, its not-for-profit partners in recovery services, THRIVE clients, families and friends, and state and local government officials.

As Long Island’s first recovery community and outreach center, THRIVE has been helping individuals and families find, maintain and strengthen their recovery since 2017. To date, thanks to continued funding from NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and donors, THRIVE centers in Hauppauge, Westbury and the East End have served more than 30,000 people.

THRIVE East End, the first drug and alcohol recovery center to open in Eastern Suffolk (Westhampton 2021), relocated to Riverhead to provide a more centralized and larger space to serve the recovery community of the North and South Forks.

Providing support at every stage of recovery, THRIVE offers a safe, welcoming haven for substance-free recreational and social activities that provide a meaningful alternative to social activities that involve substance use. All programs are free of charge.

“The success of the THRIVE community continues to grow through word of mouth and from the incredible support of our partners,” said Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, President and Chief Executive Officer of FCA. “We know the need is real – and we’re excited to launch this new, centrally located facility to better support the East End of Long Island.”

Joining Dr. Reynolds at the ribbon cutting were:

  • Ryan Kiser, Director of Recovery Services, FCA;
  • Kym Laube, Executive Director of HUGS Inc. (Human Understanding & Growth Services);
  • Maureen Amy, THRIVE client speaker in recovery;
  • Thalia Olaya, Suffolk County Regional Representative for Governor Kathy Hochul;
  • John Bouvier, NYS Executive Chamber Regional Representative, Eastern Long Island, for Governor Kathy Hochul;
  • Angela M. Noncarrow, District Office Director for Senator Anthony H. Palumbo;
  • Edward P. Romaine, Suffolk County Executive;
  • Denise Merrifield, Riverhead Town Councilwoman;
  • Bob Kern, Riverhead Town Councilman;
  • James M. Wooten, Riverhead Town Clerk;
  • Jodi Giglio, New York State Assembly, 2nd District.

In conclusion, Dr. Reynolds added, We support individuals on their recovery journey by helping them sustain their progress and enhance their overall well-being. Together, we’re committed to ending epidemics.”

THRIVE East End is located at 680 Elton Street, Riverhead, NY. For more information visit www.fcali.org.

 

Jaime Gonzalez. Photo courtesy of Gurwin

Annual Tribute Recognizes Efforts to Improve Quality, Safety and Equity of Patient Care

 Gurwin Healthcare System recently announced that Jaime Gonzalez, RN, of Brentwood, has been honored as a Quality Improvement Champion by United Hospital Fund as part of its annual Tribute to Excellence in Healthcare. Mr. Gonzalez is a Nurse Manager at Island Nursing and Rehab Center, a 120-bed skilled nursing community located in Holtsville, part of the Gurwin Healthcare System family of services.

Mr. Gonzalez and his team care for clinically complex patients with multiple comorbidities,  including those requiring specialized care offered by Island Nursing and Rehab Center, such as Total Parental Nutrition (TPN), Lasix IVPB and Solumedrol IVPB. This specialty niche facilitates timely hospital patient discharges to Island Nursing, one of the few skilled nursing facilities on Long Island uniquely qualified to provide such treatment services. Mr. Gonzalez was recognized for his leadership skills in cultivating a supportive and caring environment, for identifying opportunities for improvement, and for bringing forth and carrying out new concept initiatives as part of Island Nursing’s nursing administration team.

“We are very pleased that UHF has recognized Jaime’s contributions to advancing the quality of care and caring at Island Nursing and Rehab Center,” said Stuart B. Almer, President and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System. “Jaime’s hands-on leadership style and the respect and compassion he has for his patients, their families and his fellow staff is the driving force behind increased resident satisfaction and the provision of high-quality care at Island. We congratulate Jamie on this prestigious award.”

 

 

Members of the local community and Dunkin’ fans alike poured into Dunkin’s newly remodeled next generation restaurant at 560 Smithtown Bypass in Smithtown on Sept. 19 as part of its grand reopening ceremony. 

Dunkin’ franchisee Scott Campbell of Metro Franchising commemorated the occasion with a $2,500 donation to The Viscardi Center. The Viscardi Center is a non-profit organization that educates, employs, and empowers children, adults, and veterans with disabilities or similar needs, so they can all discover the love of learning, the power of work, the freedom of independent living, and the self-confidence to fulfill their dreams.

“The Henry Viscardi School is proud to be the recipient of such generous support from Metro Franchising and Dunkin’,” said The Viscardi Center Chief Development Officer Lauren Marzo. “Our relationship spans well over a decade, and Dunkin’s support has helped provide critical programs for our students with severe disabilities. These programs help our students learn, grow and take important steps toward an independent future.”

The celebration also included New York State Senator Mario Mattera, Suffolk County Undersheriff John Becker, members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct, members of the Smithtown Fire Department and representatives on behalf of U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota, who joined Dunkin’ representatives for a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony. 

The morning featured all guests receiving a free medium hot or iced coffee and a donut, while many other Dunkin’ Rewards members spun the Dunkin’ prize wheel for free Dunkin’ merchandise.

The 2,000-square-foot Dunkin’ employs 20 crew members and is open daily from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For more information, call 631-257-5072.

File photo

The Suffolk County Water Authority will host a Pharmaceutical Take Back Day on Saturday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the SCWA Education Center, 260 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge. This event offers a simple and environmentally responsible way for residents to dispose of unused or expired medications. No sign-up is required—just drive up, drop off your medications, and leave. Note that medical sharps cannot be accepted.

“We are excited to partner with the Suffolk County Police Department to help our customers properly dispose of their pharmaceuticals,” said SCWA Chairman Charles Lefkowitz. “By participating in this event, customers help protect our sole-source aquifer by disposing of medications properly, rather than flushing them, which can harm our water supply. We encourage all Suffolk County residents to join us.”

When medications are flushed down the toilet, they run the risk of contaminating Long Island’s aquifer, which can be a detriment to public health.This event serves as a kickoff to Source Water Protection Week, when water providers bring attention to the importance of safeguarding our natural water sources.

After residents drop off their medications during the Pharmaceutical Take Back Day event, they will be taken by a Suffolk County Police Officer to be safely incinerated, ensuring that these contaminants do not end up in the aquifer. Attendees will also be invited to come into the education center to learn more about what the SCWA does and the importance of protecting precious water sources.

About SCWA:

The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.

By Toni-Elena Gallo

Alan Blanco is doing his part to keep two East Setauket staples alive: The Butchers Market, previously Setauket Quality Meats, at 232 Main St., and Setauket Seafood at 230 Main St..

Both establishments have been in existence for over 40 years — the fish store, previously owned by Eddie Lin, and the meat shop and butcher, most recently owned by Brittany McClung.

“I worked at Savino’s Hideaway, near Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai, for many years, and I had a relationship [with Eddie] because the restaurant has bought fish from him for years. So, one day, he said he was selling and that no one was interested in buying,” Blanco said.

“And [he turned to me] and said, ‘Do you want to buy it?’”

Coincidentally, the butcher shop was also up for sale, and Blanco decided why not buy both.

When speaking about the businesses’ beloved status in East Setauket, Blanco added, “I love this neighborhood, and I know the community did not want to see these businesses go under. And, I thought maybe it was time for me to go [into business] for myself.”

Blanco has owned the fish store for about six months and acquired the butcher’s around two months ago.

He says that his main priority is staying true to the customer experience the community has been accustomed to for generations.

“We want to keep the stores’ reputations high. Eddie is still helping me out,” Blanco continued. 

“I want to keep the businesses’ legacies alive and provide good, quality produce.”

The primary change Blanco is bringing to these institutions is the incorporation of prep-prepared, which he said will make it easy for customers to “grab and go.”

Both the fish and meat stores will offer selections such as sausage and peppers, chicken francese, Italian-style meatballs, cooked fish and even vegetarian options such as eggplant parmesan.

While Blanco continues to apply his personal touches to the shops, he is just glad that the stores did not have to “disappear forever.”

“I am very excited to be here, and I’ve received such positive feedback from the community. More food options will be available in the near future,” he said.

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Owners Frank Zheng and his wife Jackie Chen. Photo by Jenna Zaza

By Jenna Zaza

Frank Zheng and his wife Jackie Chen finally fulfilled their long-awaited dream of opening a family-owned Asian market when they strung the Grand Opening banner across the quaint storefront windows nearly two months ago. 

Stony Asian Mart has reopened its doors as Zheng’s Asian Market to a bright, healthy future under new ownership. “We previously owned a Chinese restaurant for 14 years but we got tired of it, too much work,” Zheng said. “We were always thinking of opening a market and then we found this place and it was the perfect chance so — boom — we got it.”

Located across the street from the Long Island Rail Road Stony Brook station at 1087 North Country Road,  the market is an ideal spot for Stony Brook University students and faculty as well as hospital staff, according to Zheng. The small store carries a diverse range of products from medicinal and cosmetics to beverages and frozen foods. 

“There is no Asian market that is easy for students. We got food that is easy to cook, ones that you can microwave for 15 minutes. We are serving Stony Brook,” Chen said. 

Their goal to service the Stony Brook demographic is clear in their pricing. Dry snacks prices such as the popular Korean choco pie typically stay under $10, and Chinese fruit cakes only around $4 and bags of PopCorners are $1. Frozen buns, shumai and dumplings are around $5.75 and a 5-pack of instant noodles, a college staple, averages $7. But quality is not compromised for quality, Chen assures.

“I order from the number one big [importer] for Asian food, the quality is good, and bigger companies have guaranteed return policies if there are any issues,” Chen said. “It’s good for me and good for my customers. I don’t ever worry.”

Zheng’s Asian Market currently offers a 10% discount for Stony Brook University students and faculty. It also offers delivery for orders within a 3-mile radius of the university’s campus exceeding $35 with no extra fee. 

“There is all the stuff here you would find in Flushing and it’s cheaper,” said Sophia Shi, freshman political science major at Stony Brook University. “It’s also a hundred times cleaner than the stores in Flushing. I can see why a lot of people are liking the mart.” 

After purchasing the building, the owners fixed up the mini-mart by repainting it. However, the rebuilding process doesn’t stop there. Zheng’s Asian Market is proving to be a refreshing and much-needed change, according to students. 

“The old one was dark, like the lights weren’t on. I thought it was closed at first,” said John Choi, a junior majoring in biology. “I think [the new owners] made a lot of new improvements. The selection is pretty good too and I like the student discount.” 

It’s not only the power couple who are behind this business but also their children who are helping promote the new improved market by posting on the Stony Brook Reddit and hanging flyers on campus, according to Chen. 

“Stony Brook [University] is like a small city because there are a lot of people working there, and living there, hopefully more people know about us,” Zheng said. “We will check it out and see how it goes.”

In winter months, they plan to stock frozen meats and fish in hopes to appeal to hot-pot fanatics, Zheng said. They are also thinking of possibly extending their figurines and plushie stock depending on customer interest.

“When I come in here, I feel like I am back in my hometown,” said Susan Sun, a freshman psychology major. “The staff are so friendly and they should try to do more promotions. As long as people come to see it for the first time, they’ll keep coming back.”

For the new owners, service is one of their most important business pillars aside from price and quality. Zheng’s Asian Market aims to serve the Stony Brook residents’ food and high-quality service, welcoming them like family. 

“We are not big money seekers, not a million-dollar business,” Zheng said. “We just want to pay the [bills] and have fun with the people. We’ll take care of the community.” 

Jenna Zaza is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom.

Robyn Kreiner

Dr. Robyn Kreiner, physician partner for Allied’s Strauss Allergy and Asthma in Westbury and Commack, has been appointed president of the Long Island Allergy and Asthma Society (LIAAS). The Long Island Allergy and Asthma Society is a non-profit organization headed by a group of the New York Metro areas leading allergy and immunology specialists. Together, through scientific presentations and research meetings, they educate medical professionals, students and the public about the latest practices and treatments in the field of asthma allergy and immunology. The organization was founded over 40 years ago and is one of the most active local allergy societies in the country.

“Working alongside my colleagues at Allied Physicians Group and members of LIAAS, we share a commitment to providing the highest quality of care to patients with asthma and allergies. As the leader of LIAAS, I will continue to ensure we offer exceptional programs for members to enhance their knowledge and learn about new treatment modalities and approaches for patients,” said Dr. Robyn Kreiner.

Dr. Kreiner is doubled board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology as well as the American Board of Pediatrics. She is well trained in treating patients of all ages from infants to seniors for all conditions in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology.

She previously served as the treasurer, secretary and vice president of LIAAS.

For more information about Dr. Kreiner, please visit https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com/team/robyn-kreiner-md/. To learn more about LIAAS, please visit https://liaas.org/.

Modern Studio Offers Accessible Yoga Classes and Spa-Like Amenities for All Levels

YogaSix, a modern fitness boutique offering a fresh perspective on one of the world’s oldest practices, recently opening up its newest location in Lake Grove on August 30. Located at 139 D Alexander Ave, the new studio introduces people of all ages and abilities to the various health and wellness benefits of the brand’s unique take on yoga, providing a welcoming, modern, and spa-like experience. Leading up to the grand opening on October 11, YogaSix Lake Grove will be offering discounted, unlimited class memberships.

YogaSix Lake Grove is owned and operated by Cristina Givelechian, a passionate yoga enthusiast originally from Romania, who moved to the United States in 1993. Givelechian’s journey into yoga began after reading a book about a Romanian man who was unable to walk, and traditional medicine wasn’t helping him recover. He eventually turned to yoga and fully regained his mobility. Inspired by this story, Givelechian wanted to learn more and began practicing yoga herself, discovering the profound mind-body connection it offers. Over 25 years later, yoga remains her go-to practice for de-stressing and maintaining flexibility and strength.

Givelechian brings a wealth of business experience to YogaSix. With a successful 30-year career in Commercial Banking, she honed her skills in portfolio management and client relations. Inspired by the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the business owners she served, Givelechian is determined to create a thriving yoga studio that positively impacts all the communities surrounding the Lake Grove area.

“Throughout my life, I’ve tried all kinds of fitness concepts, but yoga was the one I always came back to,” said Givelechian. “For many people, yoga isn’t something they would typically consider, but the more I talk to them, the more excited they get as they begin to realize the amazing benefits yoga offers. I can’t wait to continue spreading the word about yoga and sharing its incredible benefits with the amazing communities in Lake Grove and surrounding areas.”

A variety of yoga classes are offered at YogaSix to encompass everything from deep stretching, to stress relief, to high intensity training. Offering six core formats: Y6 101, Y6 Restore, Y6 Slow Flow, Y6 Hot, Y6 Power, Y6 Sculpt Flow. Each class caters to every fitness level and strengthens the mind-body connection.

The new studio plans to make an impression with its unique, modern version of yoga and fully sensory experience featuring state-of-the-art heating system, sound and lights, high-quality cushioned performance flooring, cool eucalyptus towels, aroma-therapy, and chic retail boutique. Particularly notable is the use of simple language instead of Sanskrit to describe poses, as the traditional language can be intimidating to newcomers. The studio provides class options for everybody, from beginners to athletes seeking recovery to more advanced students, in a judgement-free, welcoming, and supportive environment. New students are always greeted by a wellness advisor when they enter the studio to educate and empower them before they engage in a YogaSix experience.

YogaSix Lake Grove is open seven days a week with up to 6 classes daily, from 6am to 8pm. Monthly memberships are available for four, eight or unlimited visits per month, as well as drop-in options. More information about the new studio can be found at www.yogasix.com/location/lake-grove and the studio can be contacted by email at [email protected], or by phone at (631) 418-8959.

Rebecca Leone

Rebecca Leone, of St. James, a Regional Director of Administrative Services, at The Bristal Assisted Living has been recognized by WTWH Healthcare as a Future Leaders Class of 2024 honoree.

The Future Leaders awards program recognizes dynamic leaders, age 40 and under, who are defining the future of aging across the behavioral health, complex rehab technology, at-home care, home medical equipment, hospice and palliative care, senior housing, and skilled nursing industries.

Leone received her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State and her MBA in Healthcare Administration and Management from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.   She began her tenure at The Bristal at Babylon as the Business Office Manager before ascending to her current position as Regional Director of Administrative Services in 2022.

“The Future Leaders Class of 2024 is committed to bettering the lives of those they care for,” stated Tim Mullaney, VP of WTWH Healthcare. “Rebecca and her fellow honorees are making an impact across their respective industries with the goals of improving resident experience, supporting caregivers, and boosting overall health outcomes.”